LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 11 



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UNITED STATES OF AMER 



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^4 "WEIBB'S 

Freemason's Monitor 

WITH THE. 

MICHIGAN BURIAL SERVICE 

ADOPTED 1881. 
AND 

OTHER PUBLIC CEREMONIES. 

TOGETHER 

WITH MANY USEFUL FORMS. 

The whole squaring with the National work of the 

Baltimore Convention, as taught by the late 

Brother JOHN BARNEY, Grand Lecturer. 

COMPILED BY 

/ 

JAMES FENTON, P. M., 

AND P. GRAND SECRETARY OF THE GRAND LODGE OF MICHIGAN, 



SEVENTH 3:DXl?i©!fcT. 

DETROIT:'' ''^ 
Published by RICHMOND, BAC*KUS"& CO. 
1882. 






s* 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1865, by 

JAMES FENTON, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the 

Eastern District of Michigan. 



cA^vJjri^^ 



Stereotyped at the 

Franklin Type Foundry, 

Cincinnati* 0. 



TO THE MEMOBY 
OF 

BROTHER JOHN BARNEY, 

THAT GOOD MAN AND TRUE MASON, 

«0 WnOSB UteTBUCTIVE TONGUE FBEEMASONBY IN THE WEST 13 SO 1TCCB 
INDEBTED FOB THE TEANSMI6SI0N, UNIMPAIBED, OF THX 

National Work of the Baltimore Convention, 
THIS t TTTXE'WOkAiS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, 

BY BIS EABLY PUPIL, 

The Compiler 



INTRODUCTORY. 



The only introduction the Compiler will give this little 
volume, may be found in the following indorsements by dis- 
tinguished Craftsmen : 

"Having examined the Freemason's Monitor, compiled by 
Bro. James Fenton, Gr. S. of the Gr. L. of Michigan, I take 
pleasure in recommending it to the Fraternity. The ar- 
rangement of the first three degrees, corresponding with the 
National Work and Lectures, as established in this jurisdic- 
tion, makes it an invaluable auxiliary in a working Lodge. 

"WM. M. FENTON, 

"P. G. M. of the G. L. of Michigan. 
"Flint, Mich., July, 1865." 



"It is arranged, seriatim, with our work and lectures in the 
first three degrees, as we work and lecture in Michigan, and 
as we understand our Baltimore or National Work and Lec- 
tures. 

"R. P. ELDRIDGE. 

"Mr. Clemens, Mich., July, 1865." 



"I have presided over a Lodge in Baltimore for a number 
of years, and am perfectly familiar with the National Work, 
as adopted by the Baltimore Convention. I have examined 
the proof-sheets of the Monitor, by Bro. Fenton, and believe 
it conforms to that work in every essential particular. 

"ROBERT GWYNN, P. M., 

"Of Arcana Lodge, No, 110." 
"CraoiMNATi, July, 1865." 

(5) 



THE 



FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 



CHAPTER I. 

Origin of Masonry and its General Advantages. 

FROM the commencement of the world we may 
trace the foundation of Masonry. * Ever since 
symmetry began, and harmony displayed her charms, 
our Order has had a being. During many ages, and 
in many different countries, it has flourished. In the 
dark periods of antiquity, when literature was in a 
low state, and the rude manners of our forefathers 
withheld from them that knowledge we now so amply 
share, Masonry diffused its influence. This science 
unvailed, arts arose, civilization took place, and the 
progress of knowledge and philosophy gradually dis- 
pelled the gloom of ignorance and barbarism. G-ov- 
ernment being settled, authority was given to laws, 
and the assemblies of the Fraternity acquired the pat- 
ronage of the great and the good, while the tenets 

* Masonry and Geometry are sometimes used as synony- 
mous terms. 

7 



8 freemason's monitor. 

of the profession were attended with unbounded 
utility. 

Masonry is a science confined to no particular 
country, but diffused over the whole terrestrial globe. 
Wherever arts flourish, there it flourishes too. Add 
to this, that, by secret and inviolable signs, carefully 
preserved among the Fraternity throughout the world, 
Masonry becomes an universal language. Hence 
many advantages are gained: the distant Chinese, the 
wild Arab, and the American savage will embrace a 
brother Briton, Frank, or German; and will know, 
that, besides the common ties of humanity, there is 
still a stronger obligation to induce him to kind and 
friendly offices. The spirit of the fulminating priest 
will be tamed ; and a moral brother, though of a dif- 
ferent persuasion, engage his esteem. Thus, through 
the influence of Masonry, which is reconcilable to 
the best policy, all those disputes which embitter 
life, and sour the tempers of men, are avoided ; while 
the common good, the general design of the Craft, is 
zealously pursued. 

From this view of the system, its utility must be 
sufficiently obvious. The universal principles of the 
art unite men of the most opposite tenets, of the 
most distant countries, and of the most contradictory 
opinions in one indissoluble bond of affection, so that 
in every nation a Mason finds a friend, and in every 
climate a home. 



FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 9 

CHAPTER II. 

The Government of the Fraternity Explained. 

THE mode of government observed by the Frater- 
nity will best explain the importance, and give 
the truest idea of the nature and design of the Ma- 
sonic system. 

There are several classes of Masons, under different 
appellations. The privileges of these classes are dis- 
tinct, and particular means are adopted to preserve 
those privileges to the just and meritorious of each 
class. 

Honor and probity are recommendations to the first 
class, in which the practice of virtue is enforced, and 
the duties of morality inculcated, while the mind is 
prepared for regular and social converse in the prin- 
ciples of knowledge and philosophy. 

Diligence, assiduity, and application are qualifi- 
cations for the second class, in which an accurate 
elucidation of science, both in theory and practice, is 
ejiven. Here human reason is cultivated by a due 
exertion of the rational and intellectual powers and 
faculties, nice and difficult theories are explained, 
new discoveries produced, and those already known 
beautifully embellished. 

The third class is composed of those whom truth 
and fidelity have distinguished ; who, when assaulted 
by threats and violence, after solicitation and persua- 
sion have failed, have evinced their firmness and in 



10 freemason's monitor. 

tegrity in preserving inviolate the mysteries of the 
Order. 

The fourth class consists of those who have per- 
severingly studied the scientific branches of the art 
and exhibited proofs of their skill and acquirements, 
and who have, consequently, obtained the honor of 
this degree as a reward of merit. 

The fifth class consists of those who, having ac- 
quired a proficiency of knowledge to become teach- 
ers, have been elected to preside over regularly 
constituted bodies of Masons. 

The sixth class consists of those who, having dis 
charged the duties of the Chair with honor and rep 
utation, are acknowledged and recorded as excellent 
masters. 

The seventh class consists of a select few, whom 
years and experience have improved, and whom merit 
and abilities have entitled to preferment. With this 
class the ancient landmarks of the Order are pre- 
served ; and from them we learn and practice the 
necessary and instructive lessons which at once dig- 
nify the art, and qualify its professors to illustrate 
its excellence and utility. 

This is the established mode of the Masonic gov- 
ernment when the rules of the system are observed. 
By this judicious arrangement, true friendship is cul- 
tivated among different ranks and degrees of men, 
hospitality promoted, industry rewarded, and inge- 
nuity encouraged. 



freemason's monitor. 11 

CHAPTER IK. 

The Importance of the Secrets of Masonry Demonstrated. 

IF the secrets of Masonry are replete with such ad- 
vantages to mankind, it may be asked, why are 
they not divulged for the general good of society? 
To which it may be answered : were the privileges of 
Masonry to be indiscriminately bestowed, the design 
of the institution would be subverted; and, being 
familiar, like many other important matters, would 
soon lose their value and sink into disregard. 

It is a weakness in human nature, that men are gen- 
erally more charmed with novelty than the real worth 
or intrinsic value of things. Novelty influences all 
our actions and determinations. What is new, or diffi- 
cult in the acquisition, however trifling or insignifi- 
cant, readily captivates the imagination, and insures a 
temporary admiration ; while what is familiar, or easily 
obtained, however noble and eminent for its utility, is 
sure to be disregarded by the giddy and unthinking. 

Did the particular secrets or peculiar forms preva- 
lent among Masons constitute the essence of the art, it 
might be alleged that our amusements were trifling, and 
our ceremonies superficial. But this is not the case. 
Having their use, they are preserved ; and, from the 
recollection of the lessons they inculcate, the well- 
informed Mason derives instruction. Drawing them 
to a near inspection, he views them through a proper 
medium ; adverts to the circumstances which gave 



12 freemason's monitor. 

them rise; dwells upon the tenets they convey; and, 
finding them replete with useful information, adopts 
them as keys to the privileges of his art, and prizes 
them as sacred. Thus convinced of their propriety, 
he estimates the value from their utility. 

Many persons are deluded by their vague suppo- 
sition that our mysteries are merely nominal ; that 
the practices established among us are frivolous; and 
that our ceremonies might be adopted or waived at 
pleasure. On this false foundation, we have found 
them hurrying through all the degrees, without ad- 
verting to the propriety of one step they pursue, or 
possessing a single qualification requisite for advance- 
ment. Passing through the usual formalities, they 
have accepted offices, and assumed the government 
of Lodges, equally unacquainted with the rules of the 
institution they pretended to support, or the nature 
of the trust reposed in them. The consequence is 
obvious ; wherever such practices have been allowed, 
anarchy and confusion have ensued, and the sub- 
stance has been lost in the shadow. 

Were the brethren who preside over Lodges prop- 
erly instructed previous to their appointment, and 
regularly apprised of the importance of their respect- 
ive offices, a general reformation would speedily take 
place. This would evince the propriety of our mode 
of government, and lead men to acknowledge that 
our honors were deservedly conferred. The ancient 
consequence of the Order would be restored, and the 



freemason's monitor. 13 

reputation of the Society preserved. Such conduct 
alone can support our character. 

Unless prudent actions shall distinguish our title to 
the honors of Masonry, and regular deportment dis- 
play the influence and utility of our rules, the world 
in general will not easily be led to reconcile our 
proceedings with the tenets of our profession. 



CHAPTEB, IV. 

General Bemarks. 



MASONRY is an art equally useful and extens- 
ive. In every art there is a mystery, which 
requires a gradual progression of knowledge to arrive 
at any degree of perfection in it. Without much in- 
struction, and more exercise, no man can he skillful 
in any art; in like manner, without an assiduous ap- 
plication to the various subjects treated of in the 
different lectures of Masonry, no person can be suf- 
ficiently acquainted with its true value. 

It must not, however, be inferred from this re- 
mark, that persons who labor under the disadvant- 
ages of a confined education, or whose sphere of 
life requires a more intense application to business 
or study, are to be discouraged in their endeavors 
to gain a knowledge of Masonry. 

To qualify an individual to enjoy the benefits of 



14 freemason's monitor. 

the Society at large, or to partake of its privileges, 
it is not absolutely necessary that he should be ac- 
quainted with all the intricate parts of the science. 
These are only intended for the diligent and assidu- 
ous Mason, who may have leisure and opportunity 
to indulge such pursuits. 

Though some are more able than others, some 
more eminent, some more useful, yet all, in their 
different spheres, may prove advantageous to the com- 
munity. As the nature of every man's profession 
will not admit of that leisure which is necessary to 
qualify him to become an expert Mason, it is highly 
proper that the official duties of a Lodge should be 
■executed by persons whose education and situation 
in life enable them to become adepts ; as it must be 
allowed that all who accept offices and exercise au- 
thority should be properly qualified to discharge 
the task assigned them, with honor to themselves 
and credit to their sundry stations. 



CHAPTER V. 

The Ceremony of Opening and Closing a Lodge. 

IN all regular assemblies of men who are con- 
vened for wise and useful purposes, the com- 
mencement and conclusion of business are accom- 
panied with some form. In every country of the 



freemason's monitor. 15 

world the practice prevails, and is deemed essential. 
From the most remote periods of antiquity it may- 
be traced, and the refined improvements of modern 
times have not totally abolished it. 

Ceremonies, when simply considered, it is true r are 
little more than visionary delusions, but their effects 
are sometimes important. When they impress awe 
and reverence on the mind, and engage the attention, 
by external attraction, to solemn rites, they are in- 
teresting objects. These purposes are effected by 
judicious ceremonies, when regularly conducted and 
properly arranged. On this ground they have re 
ceived the sanction of the wisest men in all ages, 
and, consequently, could not escape the notice of 
Masons. To begin well is the most likely means to 
end well ; and it is judiciously remarked, that, when 
order and method are neglected at the beginning, 
they will be seldom found to take place at the end. 

The ceremony of opening and closing a Lodge with 
solemnity and decorum is, therefore, universally ad- 
mitted among Masons ; and though the mode in some 
Lodges may vary, and in every degree must vary, still 
an uniformity in the general practice prevails in 
every Lodge ; and the variation (if any) is solely oc- 
casioned by a want of method, which a little appli- 
cation might easily remove. 

To conduct this ceremony with propriety ought 
to be the peculiar study of every Mason, especially 
of those who have the honor to rule in our assem- 



16 freemason's monitor. 

blies. To persons who are thus dignified, every eye 
is naturally directed for propriety of conduct and be- 
havior ; and from them other brethren who are less 
informed will naturally expect to derive an example 
worthy of imitation. 

From a share in this ceremony no Mason can be 
exempted. It is a general concern in which all 
must assist. This is the first request of the master, 
and the prelude to all business. No sooner has it 
been signified, than every officer repairs to his sta- 
tion, and the brethren rank according to their de- 
grees. The intent of the meeting becomes the sole 
object of attention, and the mind is insensibly drawn 
from those indiscriminate subjects of conversation 
which are apt to intrude on our less serious moments. 

This effect accomplished, our care is directed to 
the external avenues of the Lodge; and the proper 
officers, whose province it is to discharge that duty, 
execute their trust with fidelity, and by certain mys- 
tic forms, of no recent date, intimate that we may 
safely proceed. To detect impostors among ourselves, 
an adherence to order in the character of Masons 
ensues, and the Lodge is either opened or closed in 
solemn form. 

At opening the Lodge, two purposes are wisely 
effected : the master is reminded of the dignity of 
his character, and the brethren of the homage and 
veneration due from them in their sundry stations. 
These are not the only advantages resulting from a 



freemason's monitor. 17 

due observance of this ceremony ; a reverential awe 
for the Deity is inculcated, and the eye fixed on that 
object from whose radiant beams light only can be 
derived. Here we are taught to adore the God of 
heaven, and to supplicate his protection on our well- 
meant endeavors. The master assumes his govern- 
ment in due form, and under him his wardens, who 
accept their trust, after the customary salutations. 
The brethren, then, with one accord, unite in duty 
and respect, and the ceremony concludes. 

At closing the Lodge, a similar form takes place. 
Here the less important duties of Masonry are not 
passed over unobserved. The necessary degree of 
subordination in the government of a Lodge is pecul- 
iarly marked, while the proper tribute of gratitude 
is offered up to the beneficent Author of life, and 
his blessing invoked and extended to the whole Fra- 
ternity. Each brother faithfully locks up the treas- 
ure he has acquired, in his own secret repository, 
and, pleased with his reward, retires to enjoy and 
disseminate among the private circle of his brethren 
the fruits of his labor and industry in the Lodge. 

These are faint outlines of a ceremony which uni- 
versally prevails among Masons in every country, and 
distinguishes all their meetings. It is arranged as a 
general section in every degree, and takes the lead 
in all our illustrations. 
2 



18 freemason's monitor. 

A CHARGE, 

Used at Opening a Lodge. 

BEHOLD! how good and how pleasant 
it is for brethren to dwell together 
in unity! 

It is like the precious ointment upon 
the head, that ran down upon the beard, 
even Aaron's beard, that went down to 
the skirts of his garments: 

As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew 
that descended upon the mountains of 
Zion: for there the Lord commanded the 
blessing, even life for evermore. 

A PRAYER, 

Used at Closing the Lodge, 

MAY the blessing of Heaven rest 
upon us, and all regular Masons! 
may brotherly love prevail, and every 
moral and social virtuse cement us! 
Amen, 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 19 



CHAPTER VI. 

Charges and Regulations for the Conduct and Behavior 
of Masons. 

A REHEARSAL of the ancient charges properly 
succeeds the opening, and precedes the closing 
of a Lodge. This was the constant practice of our 
ancient brethren, and ought never to be neglected 
in our regular assemblies. A recapitulation of our 
duty can not be disagreeable to those who are ac- 
quainted with it; and to those who know it not, 
should any such be, it must be highly proper to 
recommend it. 

ANCIENT CHARGES. 

On the Management of the Craft in Working. 

Masons employ themselves diligently in their sun- 
dry vocations, live creditably, and conform with cheer- 
fulness to the government of the country in which 
they reside. 

[The most expert craftsman is chosen or appointed 
master of the work, and is duly honored by those 
over whom he presides. 

[The master, knowing himself qualified, under- 
takes the government of the Lodge, and truly dis- 
penses his rewards, giving to every brother the ap- 
probation which he merits. 

[A craftsman, who is appointed warden of the 
work under the master, is true to master and fel- 



20 freemason's monitor. 

lows, carefully oversees the work, and his brethren 
obey him.] 

The master, wardens, and brethren receive their 
rewards justly, are faithful, and carefully finish the 
work they begin, whether it be in the first or second 
degree ; but never put that work to the first which has 
been accustomed to the second degree, nor that to the 
second or first which has been accustomed to the third. 

Neither envy nor censure is discovered among true 
Masons. No brother is supplanted, or put out of his 
work, if he be capable to finish it; as no man, who 
is not perfectly skilled in the original design, can, 
with equal advantage to the master, finish the work 
begun by another. 

All employed in Masonry meekly receive their re- 
wards, and use no disobliging name. Brother or 
fellow are the terms or appellations they bestow on 
each other. They behave courteously within and 
without the Lodge, and never desert the master till 
the work is finished. 

LAWS 

For the Government of the Lodge. 
You are to salute one another in a courteous man- 
ner, agreeably to the forms established among Ma- 
sons;* you are freely to give such mutual instruc- 

*In a lodge, Masons meet as members of one family; all 
prejudices, therefore, on account of religion, country, or pri- 
vate opinion, are removed. 



freemason's monitor. 21 

tions as shall be thought necessary or expedient, not 
being overseen or overheard, without encroaching 
upon each other, or derogating from that respect 
which is due to any gentleman were he not a Ma- 
son; for though, as Masons, we rank as brethren on 
a level, yet Masonry deprives no man of the honor 
due to his rank or character, but rather adds to his 
honor, especially if he has deserved well of the Fra- 
ternity, who always render honor to whom it is due r 
and avoid ill manners. 

No private committees are to be allowed, or sepa- 
rate conversations encouraged ; the master or ward- 
ens are not to be interrupted, or any brother speaking 
to the master ; but due decorum is to be observed^ 
and the proper respect paid to the master and pre- 
siding officers. 

These laws are to be strictly enforced, that har- 
mony may be preserved, and the business of the 
Lodge be carried on with order and regularity* 
Amen. So mote it be. 

CHARGE, 

On the .Behavior of Masons out of the Lodge. 
When the Lodge is closed, you may enjoy your- 
selves with innocent mirth; but you are carefully 
to avoid excess. You are not to compel any 
brother to act contrary to his own inclination, or 
give offense by word or deed, but enjoy a free and 
. easy conversation. You are to use no immoral or 



22 freemason's monitor. 

obscene discourse, but at all times support with pro- 
priety the dignity of your character. 

You are to be cautious in your words and car- 
riage, that the most penetrating stranger may not 
discover, or find out, what is not proper to be in- 
timated; and, if necessary, you are to wave a dis- 
course, and manage it prudently, for the honor of 
the Fraternity. 

At home, and in your several neighborhoods, you 
are to behave as wise and moral men. You are 
never to communicate to your families, friends, or 
acquaintance, the private transactions of our differ- 
ent assemblies ; but upon every occasion to consult 
your own honor and the reputation of the Fraternity 
at large. 

You are to study the preservation of health, by 
avoiding irregularity and intemperance, that your 
families may not be neglected and injured, or your- 
selves disabled from attending to your necessary em- 
ployments in life. 

If a stranger apply in the character of a Mason, 
you are cautiously to examine him in such a method 
as prudence may direct, and agreeably to the forms 
established among Masons, that you may not be im- 
posed upon by an ignorant, false pretender, whom 
you are to reject with contempt; and beware of 
giving him. any secret hints of knowledge. But if 
you discover him to be a true and genuine brother, 
you are to respect him; if he be in want, you are 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 23 

to relieve him, or direct him how he may be re- 
lieved ; you are to employ him, or recommend him 
to employment : however, you are never charged 
to do beyond your ability ; only to prefer a poor 
brother, who is a good man and true, before any 
other person in the same circumstances. 

Finally : These rules you are always to observe and 
enforce, and also the duties which have been com- 
municated in the lectures ; cultivating brotherly love, 
the foundation, and cap-stone, the cement and glory 
of this ancient Fraternity ; avoiding, upon every oc- 
casion, wrangling and quarreling, slandering and 
backbiting; not permitting others to slander honest 
brethren, but defending their characters, and doing 
them good offices as far as may be consistent with 
your honor and safety, but no further. Hence all 
may see the benign influence of Masonry, as all true 
Masons have done from the beginning of the world, 
and will do to the end of time. Amen. So mote 
it be. 



CHAPTER VII. 

Prerequisites for a Candidate. 

BY a late regulation adopted by most of the 
Grrand Lodges in America, no candidate for the 
mysteries of Masonry can be initiated without having 
been proposed at a previous regular meeting of the 



24 freemason's monitor. 

Lodge, in order that no one may be introduced 
without due inquiry relative to his character and 
qualifications. 

All applications for initiation should be made by 
petition in writing, signed by the applicant, giving 
an account of his age, quality, occupation, and place 
of residence, and that he is desh ./us of being ad- 
mitted a member of the Fraternity ; which petition 
should be kept on file by the Secretary. 

FORM OF A PETITION, 

To be Presented by a Candidate for Initiation 

the worshipful Master, Wardens, 

and Brethren of Lodge of Free 

and Accepted Masons. 

The petition of the subscriber respect- 
fully showeth that, having long entertained 
a favorable opinion of your ancient insti- 
tution, he is desirous of being admitted a 
member thereof, if found worthy. 

His place of residence is ; his 

age, years; his occupation, . 

{Signed) A. B. 

After this petition is read, the candidate must 
be proposed in form by a member of the Lodge, 
and the proposition seconded by another member : 



T 



freemason's moottob. 25 

a committee is then appointed to make inquiry TiJa- 
tive to his character and qualifications. 

DECLARATION 

To be assented to by a Candidate, in an adjoinJjig 
apartment, previous to Initiation. 

DO you seriously declare, ■ upon your 
honor, before these gentlemen,**' that, 
unbiased by friends, and uninfluenced "by 
mercenary motives, you freely and volun- 
tarily offer yourself a candidate for ihe 
mysteries of Masonry? I do. 

Do you seriously declare, upon your 
honor, before these gentlemen, that you 
are prompted to solicit the privileges of 
Masonry by a favorable opinion conceived 
of the institution, a desire of knowledge, 
and a sincere wish of being serviceable 
to your fellow creatures? I do. 

Do you seriously declare, upon your 
honor, before these gentlemen, that you 
will cheerfully conform to all the ancient 
established usages and customs of the 
Fraternity? I do. 

*The Stewards of the Lodge are usually present. 



26 freemason's monitor. 

After the above declarations are made and re- 
ported to the Master, he makes it known to the 
Lodge, in manner following, viz. : 

Brethren : 

At the request of Mr. A. B., he has 
been proj)osed and accepted in regular 
form; I therefore recommend him as a 
proper candidate for the mysteries of 
Masonry, and worthy to partake of the 
privileges of the Fraternity ; and, in con- 
sequence of a declaration of his inten- 
tions, voluntarily made, I believe he will 
cheerfully conform to the rules of the 
Order." 

If there are then no objections made, the candi- 
date is introduced in due form. 



CHAPTER VIIJ. 

Kemarks on the First Lecture. 

WE shall now enter on a disquisition of the 
different sections of the lectures appropri- 
ated to the several degrees of Masonry, giving a 
brief summary of the whole, and annexing to every 
remark the particulars to which the section alludes. 



freemason's monitor. 27 

By these means the industrious Mason will he in- 
structed in the regular arrangement of the sections 
in each lecture, and be enabled with more ease to 
acquire a knowledge of the art. 

The first lecture of Masonry is divided into three 
sections, and each section into different clauses. 
Virtue is painted in the most beautiful colors, and 
the duties of morality are enforced. In it we are 
taught such useful lessons as prepare the mind for 
a regular advancement in the principles of knowl- 
edge and philosophy. These are imprinted on the 
memory by lively and sensible images, to influence 
our conduct in the proper discharge of the duties 
of social life. 

The First Section 
In this lecture is suited to all capacities, and may 
and ought to be known by every person who ranks as 
a Mason. It consists of general heads, which, though 
short and simple, carry weight with them. They 
not only serve as marks of distinction, but com- 
municate useful and interesting knowledge, when 
they are duly investigated. They qualify us to try 
and examine the rights of others to our privileges, 
while they prove ourselves ; and, as they induce us 
to inquire more minutely into other particulars of 
greater importance, they serve as an introduction to 
subjects more amply explained in the following sec- 
tions. 



28 FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

A PRAYER, 

Used at the Initiation of a Candidate. 

VOUCHSAFE thine aid, Almighty 
Father of the Universe, to this our 
present convention ; and grant that this 
candidate for Masonry may dedicate and 
devote his life to thy service, and be- 
come a true and faithful brother among 
us! Indue him with a competency of 
thy Divine wisdom, that, by the secrets 
of our art, he may be better enabled to 
display the beauties of brotherly love, re- 
lief, and truth, to the honor of thy holy 
name ! Amen. 

It is a duty incumbent on every Master of a Lodge, 
before the ceremony of initiation takes place, to in- 
form the candidate of the purpose and design "of the 
institution; to explain the nature of his solemn en- 
gagements ; and, in a manner peculiar to Masons 
alone, to require his cheerful acquiescence to the 
duties of morality and virtue, and all the sacred 
tenets of the Order. 



freemason's monitor. 29 

BEHOLD! how good and how pleasant 
it is for brethren to dwell together 
in unity ! 

It is like the precious ointment upon 
the head, that ran down upon the beard, 
even Aaron's beard, that went down to 
the skirts of his garments: 

As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew 
that descended upon the mountains of 
Zion: for there the Lord commanded the 
blessing, even life for evermore. 

Toward the close of the section is explained that 
peculiar ensign of Masonry, 

THE LAMB-SKIN, 

Or white leather apron, which is an emblem 
of innocence, and the badge of a Mason : 
more ancient than the Grolden Fleece or 
Roman Eagle; more honorable than the 
Star and Garter, or any other Order that 
could be conferred upon the candidate at 
the time of his initiation, or at any time 
thereafter, by king, prince, potentate, or 



30 freemason's monitor. 

any other person, except he be a Mason ; 
and which every one ought to wear with 
equal pleasure to himself, and honor to 
the Fraternity. 

This section closes with an explanation 
of the working tools and implements of an 
entered apprentice, which are, the twenty- 
four-inch gauge and the common gavel. 

THE TWENTY-FOUR-INCH GAUGE 

Is an instrument made use of by operative 
Masons, to measure and lay out their work ; 
but we, as Free and Accepted Masons, are 
taught to make use of it for the more no- 
ble and glorious purpose of dividing our 
time. It being divided into twenty-four 
equal parts is emblematical of the twenty- 
four hours of the day, which we are taught 
to divide into three equal parts, whereby 
we find a portion for the service of God 
and a distressed worthy brother; a portion 
for our usual avocations ; and a portion for 
refreshment and sleep. 



freemason's monitor. 31 

THE COMMON GAVEL 

Is an instrument made use of by operative 
Masons to break off the corners of rough 
stones, the better to fit them for the build- 
er's use ; but we, as Free and Accepted 
Masons, are taught to make use of it for 
the more noble and glorious purpose of 
divesting our minds and consciences of all 
the vices and superfluities of life, thereby 
fitting our bodies, as living stones, for that 
spiritual building — that house not made 
with hands, eternal in the heavens. 

The Second Section 

Rationally accounts for the origin of our hieroglyph- 
ical instruction,- and convinces us of the advantages 
which will ever accompany a faithful observance 
of our duty. It maintains, beyond the power of 
contradiction, the propriety of our rites, while it 
demonstrates to the most skeptical and hesitating 
mind their excellency and utility ; it illustrates, at the 
same time, certain particulars, of which our ignorance 
might lead us into error, and which, as Masons, we 
are indispensably bound to know 

To make a daily progress in the art is our con- 
stant duty, and expressly required by our general 



32 FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

laws. What end can be more noble than the pursuit 
of virtue? what motive more alluring than the prac- 
tice of justice? or what instruction more beneficial 
than an accurate elucidation of symbolical mysteries 
which tend to embellish and adorn the mind? Every 
thing that strikes the eye more immediately engages 
the attention, and imprints on the memory serious 
and solemn truths : hence Masons, universally adopt- 
ing this method of inculcating the tenets of their 
Order by typical figures and allegorical emblems, 
prevent their mysteries from descending into the fa- 
miliar reach of inattentive and unprepared novices, 
from whom they might not receive due veneration. 

Our records inform us that the usages, and customs 
of Masons have ever corresponded with those of the 
Egyptian philosophers, to which they bear a near 
affinity. Unwilling to expose their mysteries to vul- 
gar eyes, they concealed their particular tenets and 
principles of polity under hieroglyphical figures, and 
expressed their notions of government by signs and 
symbols, which they communicated to their Magi 
alone, who were bound by oath not to reveal them. 
The Pythagorean system seems to have been estab- 
lished on a similar plan, and many Orders of a more 
recent date. Masonry, however, is not only the most 
ancient, but the most moral institution that ever sub- 
sisted ; every character, figure, and emblem depicted 
in a Lodge has a moral tendency, and inculcates the 
practice of virtue. 



FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 33 



THE BADGE OF A MASON. 

EVERY candidate, at his initiation, is presented 
with a lamb-skin, or white leather apron. 

The lamb has, in all ages, been deemed 
an emblem of innocence; he, therefore, 
who wears the lamb-skin as a badge of 
Masonry, is thereby continually reminded 
of that purity of life and conduct which is 
essentially necessary to his gaining admis- 
sion into the Celestial Lodge above, where 
the Supreme Architect of the Universe 
presides. 

The Third Section 

Explains the nature and principles of our 
constitution, and teaches us to discharge 
with propriety the duties of our respective 
stations. Here, too, we receive instruction 
relative to the form, supports, cover- 
ing, FURNITURE, ORNAMENTS, LIGHTS, and 

jewels of a Lodge, how it should be situ- 
ated, and to whom dedicated; and our 

attention is directed to the 
3 



34 freemason's monitor. 

HOLY BIBLE, 

Which is always open when the Lodge 
is at work, and which is considered by 
Masons to be as indispensable as a 

CHARTER 

Or warrant from the Grand Lodge em- 
powering them to work. 

From east to west Freemasonry extends, 
and between the north and south, in every 
clime and nation, are Masons to be found, 
either on the 

HIGH HILL 

Of prosperity, or in the 

LOW YALE 
Of adversity. 

Our institution is said to be supported 
by 

WISDOM, STRENGTH, AND BEAUTY; 

Because it is necessary that there should 
be wisdom to contrive, strength to support, 



FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 35 

and beauty to adorn all great and import- 
ant undertakings. 

ITS DIMENSIONS 

Are unlimited, and 

ITS COVERING 

No less than a clouded canopy or a 
starry-decked heaven. To this object the 
Mason's mind is continually directed, and 
thither he hopes at last to arrive, by the 
aid of the 

THEOLOGICAL LADDER, 

Which Jacob, in his vision, saw ascending 
from earth to heaven ; the 

THREE PRINCIPAL ROUNDS 

Of which are donominated faith, hope, and 
charity, and which admonish us to have 
faith in God, hope in immortality, and 
charity to all mankind. 

Every well-governed Lodge is 
FURNISHED 
With the Holy Bible, the Square, and the 



36 freemason's monitor. 

Compass. The Bible points out the path 
that leads to happiness, and is dedicated 
to God; the square teaches us to regulate 
our conduct by the principles of morality 
and virtue, and is dedicated to the Master ; 
the compass teaches us to limit our desires 
in every station, and is dedicated to the 
Craft 

THE BIBLE 

Is dedicated to the service of God, because 
it is the inestimable gift of Grod to man ; 

the square to the Master, because, being 
the proper Masonic emblem of his office, 
it is constantly to remind him of the duty 
he owes to the Lodge over which he is 
appointed to preside ; and the compass to 
the Craft, because, by a due attention to 
its use, they are taught to regulate their 
desires and keep their passions within due 
bounds. 

THE ORNAMENTAL 

Parts of a Lodge displayed in this section 
are, the Mosaic pavement, the indented tes- 
sel, and the blazing star. The Mosaic pave- 



freemason's monitor. 37 

ment is a representation of the ground 
floor of King Solomon's Temple ; the in- 
dented tessel, that beautiful tesselated bor- 
der or skirting which surrounded it ; and 
the blazing star in the center is commemo- 
rative of the star which appeared to guide 
the wise men of the East to the place of 
our Savior's nativity. The Mosaic pave- 
ment is emblematic of human life, check 
ered with good and evil; the beautiful 
border which surrounds it, those blessings 
and comforts which surround us, and wdiieh 
we hope to obtain by a faithful reliance on 
Divine Providence, which is hieroglyphic- 
ally represented by the blazing star in the 
center. 




THE MOVABLE AND IMMOVABLE JEWELS 
Also claim our attention in this section. 

The rough ashler is a stone as taken from 
the quarry in its rude and natural state. 
The perfect ashler is a stone made ready by 



38 FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

the hands of the workman, to be adjusted 
by the tools of the fellow-craft. The tres- 
tle-board is for the Master workman to 
draw his designs upon. 

By the rough ashler we are reminded of 
our rude and imperfect state by nature ;' 
by the perfect ashler, that state of perfec- 
tion at which we hope to arrive by a vir- 
tuous education, our own endeavors, and 
the blessing of God ; and by the trestle- 
board we are reminded that, as the opera- 
tive workman erects his temporal building 
agreeably to the rules and designs laid 
down by the Master on his trestle-board, 
so should we, both operative and specula- 
tive, endeavor to erect our spiritual build- 
ing agreeably to the rules and designs laid 
down by the Supreme Architect of the 
Universe in the Book of Life, or the 
Holy Scriptures, which is our spiritual 
trestle-board. 

In this section likewise our attention is 
called to those important tools of a Mason, 
the 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 39 

SQUARE, LEVEL, AND PLUMB, 
And their uses are explained. 




TO WHOM DEDICATED. 
By a recurrence to the chapter upon the 
dedication of Lodges, it will be perceived 
that, although our ancient brethren dedi- 
cated their Lodges to King Solomon, yet 
Masons professing Christianity dedicate 
theirs to St. John the Baptist and St. 
John the Evangelist, who were eminent 
patrons of Masonry ; and since their time 
there is represented in every regular and 
well-governed Lodge a certain 

POINT WITHIN A CIRCLE; 
The point representing an individual broth- 
er ; the circle representing the boundary 
line of his duty to God and man, beyond 
which he is never to suffer his passions, 
prejudices or interest to betray him on 
any occasion. This circle is embordered 



40 FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

by two perpendicular parallel lines, rep- 
resenting St. John the Baptist, and St. 
John the Evangelist, who were perfect 
parallels in Christianity as well as Ma- 
sonry ; and upon the vertex rests the book 
of 

HOLY SCRIPTURES, 

Which points out the whole duty of man. 
In going round this circle, we necessarily 
touch upon these two lines, as well as upon 
the Holy Scriptures ; and while a Mason 
keeps himself thus circumscribed, it is 
impossible that he should materially err. 

This section, though the last in rank, is not the 
least considerable in importance. It strengthen*' 
those which precede, and enforces in the most en 
gaging manner a due regard to character and be 
havior in public as well as in private life, in the 
Lodge as well as in the general commerce of so 
ciety. It forcibly inculcates the most instructive 
lessons. Brotherly love, relief, and truth are themes 
on which we here expatiate. 

OF BROTHERLY LOYE. 

By the exercise of brotherly love, we 
are taught to regard the whole human 



FREEMASON'S MONITOB- 41 

species as one family, the high and low, 
the rich and poor ; who, as created by 
one Almighty Parent, and inhabitants 
of the same planet, are to aid, support, 
and protect each other. On this princi- 
ple Masonry unites men of every country, 
sect, and opinion, and conciliates true 
friendship among those who might other- 
wise have remained at a perpetual dis- 
tance. 

OF RELIEF. 

To relieve the distressed is a duty 
incumbent on all men; but particularly 
on Masons, who are linked together by 
an indissoluble chain of sincere affec- 
tion. To soothe the unhappy, to sympa- 
thize with their misfortunes, to compas- 
sionate their miseries, and to restore peace 
to their troubled minds, is the grand aim 
we have in view. On this basis we form 
our friendships and establish our connec- 
tions. 

OF TRUTH. 

Truth is a Divine attribute, and the 
foundation of every virtue. To be good 



42 FREEMASON'S MONlTOll. 

and true is the first lesson we are taught 
in Masonry. On this theme we contem- 
plate, and by its dictates endeavor to 
regulate our conduct; hence, while in- 
fluenced by this principle, hypocrisy and 
deceit are unknown among us, sincerity 
and plain dealing distinguish us, and the 
heart and tongue join in promoting each 
other's welfare, and rejoicing in each 
other's prosperity. 

To this illustration succeeds an explanation of the 
four cardinal virtues — Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, 
and Justice; the illustration of which virtues is accom- 
panied with some general observations peculiar to 
Masons. 

TEMPERANCE 

Is that due restraint upon our affections 
and passions which renders the body tame 
and governable, and frees the mind from 
the allurements of vice. This virtue 
should be the constant practice of ever} r 
Mason, as he is thereby taught to avoid 
excess, or contracting any licentious or 
vicious habit, the indulgence of which 
might lead him to disclose some of those 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 43 

valuable secrets which he has promised 
to conceal and never reveal, and which 
would consequently subject him to the 
contempt and detestation of all good 
Masons. 

FORTITUDE 
Is that noble and steady purpose of the 
mind whereby we are enabled to undergo 
any pain, peril, or danger, when pruden- 
tially deemed expedient. This virtue is 
equally distant from rashness and coward- 
ice, and, like the former, should be deeply 
impressed upon the mind of every Mason, 
as a safeguard or security against any 
illegal attack that may be made, by force 
or otherwise, to extort from him any of 
those secrets with which he has been sd 
solemnly intrusted, and which was em- 
blematically represented upon his first ad- 
mission into the Lodge. 

PRUDENCE 
Teaches us to regulate our lives and 
actions agreeably to the dictates of rea 



44 freemason's monitor. 

son, and is that habit by which we wisely 
judge and prudentially determine on all 
things relative to our present as well as to 
our future happiness. This virtue should 
be the j^eculiar characteristic of every 
Mason, not only for the government of his 
conduct while in the Lodge, but also when 
abroad in the world ; it should be particu- 
larly attended to in all strange and mixed 
companies, never to let fall the least sign, 
token, or word whereby the secrets of 
Masonry might be unlawfully obtained, 

JUSTICE 
Is that standard or boundary of right, 
which enables us to render to every man his 
just due, without distinction. This virtue 
is not only consistent with Divine and 
human laws, but is the very cement and 
support of civil society ; and, as justice in 
a great measure constitutes the real good 
man, so should it be the invariable prac- 
tice of every Mason never to deviate from 
the minutest principles thereof, 



freemason's monitor. 45 

The distinguishing characteristics of the 
aspirant for Masonic honors should be 

FREEDOM, FERVENCY, AND ZEAL. 

The exercise of these qualities will in- 
evitably assure an appropriate and lasting 
reward 

Such is the arrangement of the different sections 
in the first lecture, which, with the forms adopted at 
the opening and closing of a Lodge, comprehends 
the whole of the first degree of Masonry. This plan 
has the advantage of regularity to recommend it, the 
support of precedent and authority, and the sanction 
and respect which flow from antiquity. The whole 
is a regular system of morality, conceived in a strain 
of interesting allegory, which must unfold its beau- 
ties to the candid and industrious inquirer. 

CHARGE 

At Initiation into the First Degree. 

BROTHER: As you are now introduced 
into the first principles of Masonry, 
I congratulate you on being accepted into 
this ancient and honorable Order — ancient, 
as having subsisted from time immemorial ; 
and honorable, as tending, in every par- 



46 freemason's monitor. 

ticular, so to render all men who will be 
conformable to its precepts. No institu- 
tion was ever raised on a better principle 
or more solid foundation ; nor were ever 
more excellent rules and useful maxims 
laid down than are inculcated in the 
several Masonic lectures. The greatest 
and best of men in all ages have been 
encouragers and promoters of the art, and 
have never deemed it derogatory from 
their dignity to level themselves with 
the Fraternity, extend their privileges, 
and patronize their assemblies. 

There are three great duties, which, 
as a Mason, you are charged to incul- 
cate — to God, your neighbor, and yourself. 
To God, in never mentioning his name 
but with that reverential awe which is 
due from a creature to his Creator; to 
implore his aid in all your laudable under- 
takings, and to esteem him as your chief 
good : to your neighbor, in acting upon the 
square, and doing unto him as you wish he 
should do unto you: and to yourself, in 
avoiding all irregularity and intemper- 



freemason's monitor. 47 

ance, which may impair your faculties, or 
debase the dignity of your profession. A 
zealous attachment to these duties will 
insure public and private esteem. 

In the state, you are to be a quiet and 
peaceful subject, true to your government, 
and just to your country ; you are not to 
, countenance disloyalty or rebellion, but 
patiently submit to legal authority, and 
conform with cheerfulness to the govern- 
ment of the country in which you live. 

In your outward demeanor be particu- 
larly careful to avoid censure or reproach. 
Let not interest, favor, or prejudice bias 
your integrity, or influence you to be 
guilty of a dishonorable action. Although 
your frequent appearance at our regular 
meetings is earnestly solicited, yet it is 
not meant that Masonry should interfere 
with your necessary vocations, for these 
are on no account to be neglected; neither 
are you to suffer your zeal for the institu- 
tion to lead you into argument with those 
who, through ignorance, may ridicule it. 
At your leisure hours, that you may im- 



48 freemason's monitor. 

prove in Masonic knowledge, you are to 
converse with well-informed brethren, who 
will be always as ready to give as you 
will be ready to receive instruction. 

Finally : keep sacred and inviolable 
the mysteries of the Order, as these are 
to distinguish you from the rest of the 
community, and mark your consequence 
among Masons. If, in the circle of your 
acquaintance, you find a person desirous 
of being initiated into Masonry, be par- 
ticularly attentive not to recommend him 
unless you are convinced he will conform 
to our rules ; that the honor, glory, and 
reputation of the institution may be firmly 
established, and the world at large con- 
vinced of its good effects. 



CHAPTER IX. 



Remarks on the Second Degree. 

MASONRY is a progressive science, and is di- 
vided into two different classes or degrees, for 
the more regular advancement in the knowledge of 
its mysteries. According to the progress we make, 
we limit or extend our inquiries; and iD proportion 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 49 

to our capacity, we attain to a less or greater degree 
of perfection. 

Masonry includes within its circle almost every 
branch of polite learning. Under the vail of its 
mysteries is comprehended a regular system of sci- 
ence. Many of its illustrations, to the confined gen- 
ius, may appear unimportant; but the man of more 
enlarged faculties will perceive them to be, in the 
highest degree, useful and interesting. To please 
the accomplished scholar and ingenious artist, Ma- 
sonry is wisely planned, and, in the investigation of 
its latent doctrines, the philosopher and mathema- 
tician may experience equal delight and satisfaction. 

To exhaust the various subjects of which it treats 
would transcend the powers of the brightest genius; 
still, however, nearer approaches to perfection may be 
made, and the man of wisdom will not check the prog- 
ress of his abilities, though the task he attempts may 
at first seem insurmountable. Perseverance and appli- 
cation remove each difiiculty as it occurs ; every step 
he advances, new pleasures open to his view, and 
instruction of the noblest kind attends his researches. 
In the diligent pursuit of knowledge, the intellectual 
faculties are employed in promoting the glory of 
God and the good of man. 

The first degree is well calculated to enforce the 
duties of morality, and imprint on the memory the 
noblest principles which can adorn the human mind. 
It is, therefore, the best introduction to the second 
degree, which not only extends the same plan, but 
comprehends a more diffusive system of knowledge. 
Here practice and theory join in qualifying the 
industrious Mason to share the pleasures which an 
4 



50 freemason's monitor. 

advancement in the art must necessarily afford. List- 
ening with attention to the wise opinions of expe- 
rienced craftsmen on important subjects, he grad- 
ually familiarizes his mind to useful instruction, and 
is soon enabled to investigate truths of the utmost 
concern in the general transactions of life. 

From this system proceeds a rational amusement; 
while the mental powers are fully employed, the 
judgment is properly exercised; a spirit of emula- 
tion prevails; and all are induced to vie, who shall 
most excel in promoting the valuable rules of the 
institution. 

The First Section 

Of the second degree accurately elucidates the 
mode of introduction into that particular class, and 
instructs the diligent craftsman how to proceed in 
the proper arrangement of the ceremonies used on 
the occasion. It qualifies him to judge of their im- 
portance, and convinces him of the necessity of 
strictly adhering to every established usage of the 
Order. Here he is intrusted with particular tests, to 
enable him to prove his title to the privileges of this 
degree, while satisfactory reasons are given for their 
origin. Many duties, which cement, in the firmest 
union, well-informed brethren, are illustrated in this 
section; and an opportunity is given to make such 
advances in Masonry as will always distinguish the 
abilities of those who have arrived at preferment. 
The knowledge of this section is absolutely necessary 
for all craftsmen, and, as it recapitulates the ceremony 
of initiation, and contains many other important par- 
ticulars, no oflicer or member of a Lodge should be 
unacquainted with it. 



freemason's MONITOR.' 51 

The following is introduced during the ceremonies 

" Thus he showed me; and, behold, the 
Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumb- 
line, with a plumb-line in his hand. And 
the Lord said to me, Amos, what seest 
thou? And I said, A plumb-line. Then 
said the Lord, Behold, I will set a plumb- 
line in the midst of my people Israel: I 
will not again pass by them any more." — 
Amos, vii: 7, 8. 

THE PLUMB, SQUARE, AND LEVEL, 

Those noble and useful implements of a fellow- 
craft, are here introduced and moralized, and serve 
as a constant admonition to the practice of virtue 
and morality. 

The plumb is an instrument made use of 
by operative Masons, to raise perpendicu- 
lars ; the square, to square their work ; and 
the level, to lay horizontals ; but we, as Free 
and Accepted Masons, are taught to make 
use of them for more noble and glorious 
purposes ; th.e plumb admonishes us to walk 
uprightly in our several stations before 
God and man, squaring our actions by the 
square of virtue, and remembering that we 
are traveling upon the level of time to that 



D3 • FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

" undiscovered country from whose bourn 
no traveler returns." 

The Second Section 

Of this degree has recourse to the origin of the 
institution, and views Masonry under two denomina- 
tions, operative and speculative. These are separately 
considered, and the principles on which both are 
founded particularly explained. Their affinity is 
pointed out by allegorical figures and typical repre- 
sentations. The period stipulated for rewarding merit 
is fixed, and the inimitable moral to which that cir- 
cumstance alludes is explained; the creation of the 
world is described, and many particulars recited, all 
of which have been carefully preserved among Ma- 
sons, and transmitted from one age to another by 
oral tradition. 

Circumstances of great importance to the Frater- 
nity are here particularized, and many traditional 
tenets and customs confirmed by sacred and profane 
record. The celestial and terrestrial globes are con- 
sidered; and here the accomplished gentleman may 
display his talents to advantage, in the elucidation 
of the Orders of Architecture, the Senses of human 
nature, aud the liberal Arts and Sciences, which are 
severally classed in a regular arrangement. In short, 
this section contains a store of valuable knowledge, 
founded on reason and sacred record, both entertain- 
ing and instructive. 



freemason's monitor. .53 

Masonry is considered under two denominations — 
operative and speculative. 

OPERATIVE MASONRY. 

By operative Masonry we allude to a 
proper application of the useful rules of 
architecture, whence a structure will de- 
rive figure, strength, and beauty, and 
whence will result a clue proportion and a 
just correspondence in all its parts. It 
furnishes us with dwellings, and conven- 
ient shelters from the vicissitudes and in- 
clemencies of the seasons ; and, while it 
displays the effects of human wisdom, as 
well in the choice as in the arrangement 
of the sundry materials of which an edifice 
is composed, it demonstrates that a fund of 
science and industry is implanted in man 
for the best, most salutary, and beneficent 
purposes. 

SPECULATIVE MASONRY. 

By speculative Masonry we learn to sub- 
due the passions, act upon the square, keep 
a tongue of good report, maintain secrecy, 
and practice charity. It is so far inter- 



54 FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

woven with religion as to lay us under ob- 
ligations to pay that rational homage to 
the Deity, which at once constitutes our 
duty and our happiness. It leads the con- 
templative to view with reverence and ad- 
miration the glorious works of the creation, 
and inspires him with the most exalted 
ideas of the perfections of his Divine Cre- 
ator. 

In six days God created the heavens and 
the earth, and rested upon the seventh day ; 
the seventh, therefore, our ancient breth- 
ren consecrated as a clay of rest from their 
labors, thereby enjoying frequent opportu- 
nities to contemplate the glorious works 
of the creation, and to adore their great 
Creator. 

The doctrine of the spheres is included 
in the science of astronomy, and particu- 
larly considered in this section. 

' Here are introduced and explained emblems of 
PEACE, UNITY, AND PLENTY. 



B. J. 



freemason's monitor. 55 

OF THE GLOBES. 

THE globes are two artificial spherical 
bodies, on the convex surface of which 
are represented the countries, seas, and 
various parts of the earth, the face of the 
heavens, the planetary revolutions, and 
other particulars. 

The sphere with the parts of the earth 
delineated on its surface is called the ter- 
restrial globe ; and that with the constel- 
lations and other heavenly bodies, the ce- 
lestial globe. 

THE USE OF THE GLOBES. 

Their principal use, besides serving as 
maps to distinguish the outward parts of 
the earth, and the situation of the fixed 
stars, is to illustrate and explain the phe- 
nomena arising from the annual revolution 
and the diurnal rotation of the earth round 
its own axis. They are the noblest instru- 
ments for improving the mind, and giving 
it the most distinct idea of any problem 
or proposition, as well as enabling it to 



56 freemason's monitor. 

solve the same. Contemplating these bod- 
ies, we are inspired with a due reverence 
for the Deity and his works, and are in- 
duced to encourage the studies of astron- 
omy, geography, navigation, and the arts 
dependent on them, by which society has 
been so much benefited. 

The orders of architecture come under .considera- 
tion in this section ; a brief description of them may, 
therefore, not be improper. 

OF ORDER IN ARCHITECTURE. 

Y order in architecture is meant a 
system of all the members, propor- 
tions, and ornaments of columns and pilas- 
ters ; or, it is a regular arrangement of 
the projecting parts of a building, which, 
united with those of a column, form a beau- 
tiful, perfect, and complete whole. 

OF ITS ANTIQUITY. 

From the first formation of society, 
order in architecture may be .traced. 
When the rigor of seasons obliged men to 
contrive shelter from the inclemency of 



B 



FREEMASONS MONITOR. 57 

tlie weather, we learn that they first 
planted trees on end, and then laid others 
across to support a covering. The bands 
which connected those trees at top and 
bottom are said to have given rise to the 
idea of the base and capital of pillars ; 
and from this simple hint originally pro- 
ceeded the more improved art of archi- 
tecture. 

The five orders are thus classed : the 
Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and Com- 
posite. 

THE TUSCAN 

Is the most simple and solid of the five 
orders. It was invented in Tuscany, 
whence it derives its name. Its column is 
seven diameters high ; and its capital, 
base, and entablature have but few mold- 
ings. The simplicity of the construction 
of this column renders it eligible where 
ornament would be superfluous. 

THE DORIC, 

Which is plain and natural, is the most 
ancient, and was invented by the Greeks. 



58 freemason's monitor. 

Its column is eight diameters high, and 
has seldom any ornaments on base or cap- 
ital, except moldings ; though the frieze is 
distinguished by triglyphs and metopes, 
and triglyphs compose the ornaments of 
the frieze. The solid composition of this 
order gives it a preference in structures 
where strength and noble simplicity are 
chiefly required. 

The Doric is the best proportioned of 
all the orders ; the several parts of which 
it is composed are founded on the natural 
position of solid bodies. In its first inven- 
tion it was more simple than in its present 
state. In after times, when it began to be 
adorned, it gained the name of Doric ; for 
when it was constructed in its primitive 
and simple form, the name of Tuscan was 
conferred on it. Hence the Tuscan pre- 
cedes the Doric in rank, on account of its 
resemblance to that pillar in its original 

state. 

THE IONIC 

Bears a kind of mean proportion between 
the more solid and delicate orders. Its 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 



column is nine diameters high ; its capital 
is adorned with volutes, and its cornice 
has dentals. There is both delicacy and 
ingenuity displayed in this pillar, the 
invention of which is attributed to the 
Ionians, as the famous Temple of Diana 
at Ephesus was of this order. It is said 
to have been formed after the model of an 
agreeable young woman, of an elegant 
shape, dressed in her hair, as a contrast to 
the Doric order, which was formed after 
that of a strong, robust man. 

THE CORINTHIAN, 

The richest of the five orders, is deemed a 
masterpiece of art. Its column is ten 
diameters high, and its capital is adorned 
with two rows of leaves and eight volutes, 
which sustain the abacus. The frieze is 
ornamented with curious devices, the cor- 
nice with dentals and modillions. 

This order is used in stately and superb 
structures. It was invented at Corinth, 
by Callimachus, who is said to have taken 
the hint of the capital of this pillar from 



€0 freemason's monitor. 

the following remarkable circumstance 
Accidentally passing by the tomb of a 
young lacly, he perceived a basket of toys, 
covered with a tile, placed over an acan- 
thus root, having been left there by her 
nurse. As the branches grew up, they 
encompassed the basket, till, arriving at 
the tile, they met with an obstruction, and 
bent downward. Callimachus, struck with 
the object, set about imitating the figure: 
the base of the capital he made to repre- 
sent the basket ; the abacus the tile ; and 
the volutes the bending leaves. 

THE COMPOSITE 

Is compounded of the other orders, and 
was contrived by the Romans. Its capital 
has the two rows of leaves of the Corinth- 
ian, and the volutes of the Ionic. Its 
column has the quarter-round, as the Tus- 
can and Doric order; is ten diameters 
high, and its cornice has dentals or simple 
modillions. This pillar is generally found 
in buildings where strength, elegance and 
beauty are displayed. 



freemason's monitor. 61 

OF THE INVENTION OF ORDER IN ARCHI- 
TECTURE. 

The ancient and original orders of archi- 
tecture, revered by Masons, are no more 
than three, the Doric, Ionic, and Cor- 
inthian, which were invented by the 
Greeks. To these the Romans have added 
two : the Tuscan, which they made plainer 
than the Doric ; and the Composite, which 
was more ornamental, if not more beauti- 
ful, than the Corinthian. The first three 
orders alone, however, show invention and 
particular character, and essentially differ 
from each other; the two others have 
nothing but what is borrowed, and differ 
only accidentally : the Tuscan is the Doric 
in its earliest state; and the Composite is 
the Corinthian, enriched with the Ionic. 
To the Greeks, therefore, and not to the 
Romans, we are indebted for what is great, 
judicious, and distinct in architecture. 



62 freemason's monitor. 

OF THE FIVE SENSES 

OF HUMAN NATURE. 

AN analysis of the human faculties is next given 
in this section, in which the five external senses 
particularly claim attention ; these are : hearing, see- 
ing, feeling, smelling, and tasting. 

HEARING 

Is that sense by which we distinguish 
sounds, and are capable of enjoying all 
the agreeable charms of music. By it we 
are enabled to enjoy the pleasures of 
society, and reciprocally to communicate 
to each other our thoughts and intentions, 
our purposes and desires ; while thus our 
reason is capable of exerting its utmost 
power and energy. 

The wise and beneficent Author of Na- 
ture intended, by the formation of this 
sense, that we should be social creatures, 
and receive the greatest and most import- 
ant part of our knowledge by the informa- 
tion of others. For these purposes we 
are endowed with hearing, that by a proper 



freemason's monitor. 63 

exertion of our rational powers, our hap- 
piness may be complete. 

SEEING 

Is that sense by which we distinguish 
objects, and in an instant of time, without 
change of place or situation, view armies 
in battle array, figures of the most stately 
structures, and all the agreeable variety 
displayed in the landscape of nature. By 
this sense we find our way in the pathless 
ocean, traverse the globe of earth, de- 
termine its figure and dimensions, and de- 
lineate any region or quarter of it. By it 
we measure the planetary orbs, and make 
new discoveries in the sphere of the fixed 
stars. Nay, more : by it we perceive the 
tempers and dispositions, the passions and 
affections of our fellow-creatures, when 
they wish most to conceal them ; so that, 
though the tongue may be taught to lie 
and dissemble, the countenance would dis- 
play the hypocrisy to the discerning eye. 
In fine, the rays of light, which administer 
to this sense, are the most astonishing 



64 freemason's monitor. 

parts of the animated creation, and render 
the eye a peculiar object of admiration. 

Of all the faculties, sight is the noblest. 
The structure of the eye, and its appurte- 
nances, evinces the admirable contrivance 
of Nature for performing all its various ex- 
ternal and internal motions; while the va- 
riety displayed in the eyes of different 
animals, suited to their several ways of 
life, clearly demonstrates this organ to be 
the masterpiece of Nature's work. 

FEELING 

Is that sense by which we distinguish the 
different qualities of bodies; such as heat 
and cold, hardness and softness, roughness 
and smoothness, figure, solidity, motion, 
and extension. 

These three senses, Hearing, Seeing, and 
Feeling, are deemed peculiarly essential 
among Masons. 

SMELLING 

Is that sense by which we distinguish 
odors, the various kinds of which convey 



freemason's monitor. 65 

different impressions to the mind. Ani- 
mal and vegetable bodies, and, indeed, 
most other bodies, while exposed to the 
air, continually send forth effluvia of vast 
subtilty, as well in the state of life and 
growth, as in the state of fermentation 
and putrefaction. These effluvia, being 
drawn into the nostrils along with the air, 
are the . means by which all bodies are 
smelled. Hence it is evident that there 
is a manifest appearance of design in the 
great Creator's having planted the organ 
of smell in the inside of that canal 
through which the air continually passes 
in respiration. 

TASTING 

Enables us to make a proper distinction 
in the choice of our food. The organ of 
this sense guards the entrance of the ali- 
mentary canal, as that of smelling guards 
the entrance of the canal for respiration. 
From the situation of both these organs 
it is plain that they were intended by Na- 
ture to distinguish wholesome food from 
5 



66 FREEMASONS MONITOR. 

that which is nauseous. Every thing that 
enters into the stomach must undergo the 
scrutiny of tasting; and by it we are 
capable of discerning the changes which 
the same body undergoes in the different 
compositions of art, cookery, chemistry, 
pharmacy, etc. 

Smelling and tasting are inseparably 
connected, and it is by the unnatural kind 
of life men commonly lead in society, that 
these senses are rendered less fit to per- 
form their natural offices. 

On the mind all our knowledge must 
depend: what, therefore, can be a more 
proper subject for the investigation of 
Masons? By anatomical dissection and 
observation we become acquainted with 
the body ; but it is by the anatomy of the 
mind alone we discover its powers and 
principles. 

To sum up the whole of this transcend- 
ent measure of God's bounty to man, we 
shall add, that memory, imagination, taste, 
reasoning, moral perception, and all the 
active powers of the soul, present a vast 



freemason's monitor. 61 

and boundless field for philosophical dis- 
quisition, which far exceeds human in- 
quiry, and are peculiar mysteries, known 
only to nature and to nature's God, to 
whom we and all are indebted for crea- 
tion, preservation, and every blessing we 
enjoy. 

OF THE SEVEN LIBERAL ARTS 

AND SCIENCES. 

THE seven liberal Arts and Sciences 
are next illustrated in this section: 
it may not, therefore, be improper to in- 
sert here a short explanation of them. 

GRAMMAR 

Teaches the proper arrangement of words, 
according to the idiom or dialect of any 
particular people; and that excellency of 
pronunciation which enables us to speak 
or write a language with accuracy, agree- 
ably to reason and correct usage. 

RHETORIC 
Teaches us to speak copiously and fluently 
on any subject, not merely with propriety, 



bb FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

but with all the advantages of force and 
elegance; wisely contriving to captivate 
the hearer by strength of argument and 
beauty of expression, whether it be to en- 
treat or exhort, to admonish or applaud. 

LOGIC 

Teaches us to guide our reason discretion- 
ally in the general knowledge of things, 
and directs our inquiries after truth. It 
consists of a regular train of argument, 
whence we infer, deduce, and conclude, 
according to certain premises laid down, 
admitted, or granted; and in it are em- 
ployed the faculties of conceiving, judg- 
ing, reasoning, and disposing ; all of which 
are naturally led on from one gradation to 
another, till the point in question is finally 
determined. 

ARITHMETIC 

Teaches the powers and properties of 
numbers, which is variously effected, by 
letters, tables, figures, and instruments. 
By this art, reasons and demonstrations 



FREEMASONS MONITOR. 69 

are given for finding out any certain num- 
ber, whose relation or affinity to another 
is already known or discovered. 

GEOMETRY 

Treats of the powers and properties of 
magnitudes in general, where length, 
breadth, and thickness are considered, 
from a point to a line, from a line to a 
superficies, and from a superficies to a 
solid. 

A point is a dimensionless figure, or 
an indivisible part of space. 

A line is a point continued, and a 
figure of one capacity, namely, length. 

A superficies is a figure of two dimen- 
sions, namely, length and breadth. 

A solid is a figure of three dimensions, 
namely, length, breadth, and thickness. 

OF THE ADVANTAGES OF GEOMETRY. 

By this science, the architect is en- 
abled to construct his plans and execute 
his designs: the general to arrange his 
soldiers; the engineer to mark out ground 



70 FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

for encampments ; the geographer to give 
us the dimensions of the world, and all 
things therein contained ; to delineate the 
extent of seas, and specify the divisions 
of empires, kingdoms, and provinces ; by 
it, also, the astronomer is enabled to 
make his observations, and to fix the 
duration of times and seasons, years and 
cycles. In fine, geometry is the founda- 
tion of architecture, and the root of the 
mathematics. 

MUSIC 

Teaches the art of forming concords, so 
as to compose delightful harmony, by a 
mathematical and proportional arrange- 
ment of acute, grave, and mixed sounds. 
This art, by a series of experiments, is 
reduced to a demonstrative science, with 
respect to tones, and the intervals of 
sound. It inquires into the nature of 
concords and discords, and enables us to 
find out the proportion between them by 
numbers. 



FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 71 

ASTRONOMY 

Is that Divine art by which we are 
taught to read the wisdom, strength, and 
beauty of the Almighty Creator, in those 
sacred pages, the celestial hemisphere. 
Assisted by astronomy, we can observe the 
motions, measure the distances, compre- 
hend the magnitudes, and calculate the 
periods and eclipses of the heavenly bodies. 
By it we learn the use of the globes, the 
system of the world, and the preliminary 
law of nature. While we are employed 
in the study of this science, we must per- 
ceive unparalleled instances of wisdom and 
goodness, and, through the whole creation, 
trace the glorious Author by his works. 

After this follows an emblem of plenty, which is 
symbolically explained : 

CORN, 

WINE, 

OIL. 



G 



72 FREEMASON'S MONITOR, 

OF THE MORAL ADVANTAGES OF 
GEOMETRY. 

From this theme we proceed to illustrate the moral 
advantages of Geometry, a subject on which the fol- 
lowing observations may not be unacceptable. 

Geometry, the first and noblest of sci- 
ences, is the basis on which the superstruc 
ture of Masonry is erected. By geometry 
we may curiously trace nature, through hei 
various windings, to her most concealed 
recesses. By it we discover the power, 
the wisdom, and the goodness of the Grand 
Artificer of the Universe, and view with 
delight the proportions which connect this 
vast machine. By it we discover how the 
planets move in their different orbits, and 
demonstrate their various revolutions. By 
it we account for the return of seasons, and 
the variety of scenes which each season 
displays to the discerning eye. Number- 
less worlds are around us, all framed by 
the same Divine Artist, which roll through 
the vast expanse, and are all conducted 
by the same unerring law of nature. 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 73 

A survey of nature, and the observation 
of her beautiful proportions, first determ 
ined man to imitate the Divine plan, and 
study symmetry and order. This gave 
rise to societies, and birth to every useful 
art. The architect began to design; and 
the plans which he laid down, being im- 
proved by experience and time, have pro- 
duced works which are the admiration of 
every age. 

The lapse of time, the ruthless hand of 
ignorance, and the devastations of war, 
have laid waste and destroyed many valu- 
able monuments of antiquity on which the 
utmost exertions of human genius have 
been employed. Even the Temple of 
Solomon, so spacious and magnificent, 
and constructed by so many celebrated 
artists, escaped not the unsparing rav- 
ages of barbarous force. Freemasonry, 
notwithstanding, has still survived. The 

ATTENTIVE EAR 
receives the sound from the 

INSTRUCTIVE TONGUE, 



74 freemason's monitor. 

and the mysteries of Masonry are safely 
lodged in the repository of 

FAITHFUL BREASTS. 

Tools and implements of architecture are 
selected by the Fraternity to imprint on 
the memory wise and serious truths ; 
and thus, through a succession of ages, 
are transmitted unimpaired the excellent 
tenets of our institution. 

Thus end the two sections of the second lecture ; 
which, with the ceremony used at opening and clos- 
ing the Lodge, comprehend the whole of the second 
degree of Masonry. This lecture contains a regular 
6ystem of science, demonstrated on the clearest prin- 
ciples, and established on the firmest foundation. 

CHARaE 
At Initiation into the Second Degree. 

BROTHER: Being advanced to the 
second degree of Masonry, we con- 
gratulate you on your preferment. The 
internal, and not the external, qualifica- 
tions of a man are what Masonry regards, 
As you increase in knowledge, you will 
improve in social intercourse. 



freemason's monitor. 75 

It is unnecessary to recapitulate the 
duties which, as a Mason, you are bound 
to discharge, or enlarge on the necessity 
of a strict adherence to them, as your 
own experience must have established 
their value. 

Our laws and regulations you are stren- 
uously to support, and be always ready to 
assist in seeing them duly executed. You 
are not to palliate or aggravate the of- 
fenses of your brethren ; but in the deci- 
sion of every trespass against our rules you 
are to judge with candor, admonish with 
friendship, and reprehend with justice. 

The study of the liberal arts, that valu- 
able branch of education, which tends so 
effectually to polish and adorn the mind, 
is earnestly recommended to your consid- 
eration, especially the science of geome- 
try, which is established as the basis of our 
art. Geometry or Masonry, originally 
synonymous terms, being of a Divine and 
moral nature, is enriched with the most 
useful knowledge: while it proves the 
wonderful properties of nature, it demon- 



76 FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

strates the more important truths of 
morality. 

Your past behavior and regular deport- 
ment have merited the honor which we 
have now conferred; and in your new char- 
acter it is expected that you will conform 
to the principles of the Order, by steadily 
persevering in the practice of every com- 
mendable virtue. 

Such is the nature of your engagements 
as a fellow-craft, and to these duties you 
are bound by the most sacred ties. 



CHAPTER X. 



Remarks on the Third Degree. 

FROM this class the rulers of regular bodies of 
Masons, in the first three degrees, are selected, 
as it is only from those who are capable of giving 
instruction that we can properly expect to receive it. 
The lecture of this degree, considered separately from 
the duties and ceremonies appertaining to the degree 
of Presiding or Past Master, is divided into three sec- 
tions. 



freemason's monitor. 77 

The First Section. 

The ceremony of initiation into the third degree 
is particularly specified in this branch of the lecture, 
and here many other useful instructions are given. 

Such is the importance of this section, that we may 
safely declare, that the person who is unacquainted 
with it is ill qualified to act as a ruler or governor of 
the work. 

SCRIPTURE. 

The following passage of Scripture is introduced 
during the ceremonies: 

Remember now thy Creator in the clays 
of thy youth, while the evil days come not, 
nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt 
say, I have no pleasure in them ; while the 
sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, 
be not darkened, nor the clouds return 
after the rain : in the day when the keepers 
of the house shall tremble, and the strong- 
men shall bow themselves, and the grind- 
ers cease because they are few, and those 
that look out of the windows be darkened, 
and the doors shall be shut in the streets, 
when the sound of the grinding is low ; and 
he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, 
and all the daughters of music shall be 



78 freemason's monitor. 

brought low. Also- when they shall be 
afraid of that which is high, and fears 
shall be in the way, and the almond-tree 
shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall 
be a burden, and desire shall fail: because 
man goeth to his long home, and the 
mourners go about the streets : or ever the 
silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl 
be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the 
fountain, or the wheel broken at the cis- 
tern. Then shall the dust return to the 
earth as it was, and the spirit shall return 
unto Grod who gave it.— -Ecdes. xii : 1-7. 

THE WORKING TOOLS 

Of a Master Mason, which are illustrated 
in this section, are all the implements of 
Masonry indiscriminately, but more espe- 
cially 

THE TROWEL. 

The trowel is an instrument made use 
of by operative Masons to spread the ce- 
ment which unites a building into one com- 
mon mass ; but we, as Free and Accepted 
Masons, are taught to make use of it for 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 7L J 

the more noble and glorious purpose of 
spreading the cement of brotherly love and 
affection ; that cement which unites us into 
one sacred band, or society of friends and 
brothers, among whom no contention should 
ever exist, but that noble contention, or 
rather emulation, of who best can work 
or best agree. 

The Second Section 

Recites the historical traditions of the Order, and pre- 
sents to view a finished picture of the utmost conse- 
quence to the Fraternity. It exemplifies an instance 
of virtue, fortitude, and integrity, seldom equaled, 
and never excelled, in the history of man. 

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FREEMASON S MONITOR. 



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freemason's monitor. 81 



PRAYER, 



At Raising a Brother to the Sublime Degree of a 
Master Mason. 

THOU, God! knowest our down-sit- 
ting and our uprising, and understand- 
est our thoughts afar off. Shield and de- 
fend us from the evil intentions of our en- 
emies, and support us under the trials and 
afflictions we are destined to endure while 
traveling through this vale of tears. Man 
that is born of a woman is of few days, 
and full of trouble. He cometh forth as a 
flower, and is cut down ; he fleeth also as a 
shadow, and continueth not. Seeing his 
days are determined, the number of his 
months are with thee, thou hast appointed 
his bounds that he can not pass ; turn from 
him that he may rest, till he shall accom- 
plish his day. For there is hope of a tree, 
if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, 
and that the tender branch thereof will 
not cease. But man dieth, and wasteth 
away : yea, man giveth up the ghost, and 
where is he ? As the waters fail from the 

sea, and the flood decayeth and drieth 
6 



82 FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

up, so man lieth clown, and riseth not till 
the heavens shall be no more. Yet, 
Lord ! have compassion on the children 
of thy creation, administer them comfort 
in time of trouble, and save them with an 
everlasting salvation. Amen. So mote 
it be. 

The Third Section 

Illustrates certain hieroglyphieal emblems, 
and inculcates many useful lessons to ex- 
tend knowledge and promote virtue. 

In this branch of the lecture many par 
ticulars relative to King Solomon's Tem- 
ple are considered. 

The construction of this grand edifice 
was attended with two remarkable circum- 
stances. From tradition we learn that al- 
though seven years were occupied in build- 
ing it, yet during the whole term it rained 
not in the day-time, that the workmen 
might not be obstructed in their labor: 
and from sacred history it appears that 
there was neither the sound of the ham- 
mer, nor ax, nor any tool of iron, heard 
in the house while it was building. 



freemason's monitor. 83 

This famous fabric was supported by 
fourteen hundred and fifty-three columns, 
and two thousand nine hundred and six 
pilasters, all hewn from the finest Parian 
marble. There were employed in this 
building three grand masters ; three thou- 
sand and three hundred masters, or over- 
seers of the work ; eighty thousand fel- 
low-crafts ; and seventy thousand entered 
apprentices, or bearers of burdens. All 
these were classed and arranged in such 
a manner by the wisdom of Solomon, 
that neither envy, discord, nor confusion 
were suffered to interrupt that universal 
peace and tranquillity which pervaded 
the world at this important period. 

THE THREE STEPS 

Usually delineated upon the Master's car- 
pet are emblematical of the three prin- 
cipal stages of human life, viz., youth, 
manhood, and age. In youth, as entered 
apprentices, we ought industriously to oc- 
cupy our minds in the attainment of use- 
ful knowledge : in manhood, as fellow- 



8± freemason's monitor. 

crafts, we should apply our knowledge to 
the discharge of our respective duties to 
God, our neighbors, and ourselves ; that so 
in age, as Master Masons, we may enjoy 
the happy reflections consequent on a well- 
spent life, and die in the hope of a glori- 
ous immortality. 

THE POT OF INCENSE 

Is an emblem of a pure heart, which is al- 
ways an acceptable sacrifice to the Deity; 
and, as this glows with fervent heat, so 
should our hearts continually glow with 
gratitude to the great and beneficent Au- 
thor of our existence, for the manifold 
blessings and comforts we enjoy. 

THE BEE-HIVE 

Is an emblem of industry, and recom- 
mends the practice of that virtue to all 
created beings, from the highest seraph in 
heaven to the lowest reptile of the dust 
It teaches us that, as we came into the 
world rational and intelligent beings, 
so we should ever be industrious ones; 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 85 

never sitting down contented while our 
fellow-creatures around us are in want, 
when it is in our power to relieve them, 
without inconvenience to ourselves 

When we take a survey of nature, we 
view man, in his infancy, more helpless 
and indigent than the brutal creation; he 
lies languishing for days, months, and 
years, totally incapable of providing sus- 
tenance for himself, of guarding against 
the attacks of the wild beasts of the field, 
or sheltering himself from the inclemen- 
cies of the weather. 

It might have pleased the great Creator 
of heaven and earth to have made man 
independent of all other beings ; but, as 
dependence is one of the strongest bonds 
of society, mankind were made dependent 
on each other for protection and security, 
as they thereby enjoy better opportunities 
of fulfilling the duties of reciprocal love 
and friendship. Thus was man formed 
for social and active life, the noblest part 
of the work of God ; and he that will so 
demean himself as not to be endeavoring 



86 freemason's monitor. 

to add to the common stock of knowledge 
and understanding, may be deemed a drone 
in the hive of nature, a useless member of 
society, and unworthy of our protection as 

Masons. 

THE BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS, 

Guarded by the Tyler's Sword, 

Reminds us that we should be ever watch- 
ful and guarded in our thoughts, words, 
and actions, particularly when before the 
enemies of Masonry, ever bearing in re- 
membrance those truly Masonic virtues, 
silence and circumspection. 

THE SWORD, 

Pointing to a Naked Heart, 

Demonstrates that justice will sooner or 
later overtake us ; and, although our 
thoughts, words, and actions may be hidden 
from the eyes of man, yet that 

ALL-SEEING EYE, 

Whom the Sun, Moon, and Stars obey, 
and under whose watchful care even com 



freemason's monitor. 87 

ets perform their stupendous revolutions, 
pervades the inmost recesses of the human 
heart, and will reward us according to our 
merits. 

THE ANCHOR AND ARK 

Are emblems of a well-grounded hope and 
a well-spent life. They are emblematical 
of that Divine arJc which safely wafts us 
over this tempestuous sea of troubles, and 
that anchor which shall safely moor us in 
a peaceful harbor, where the wicked cease 
from troubling, and the weary shall find 
rest. 

THE FORTY-SEVENTH PROBLEM OF 
EUCLID* 

This was an invention of our ancient 
friend and brother, the great Pythagoras, 
who, in his travels through Asia, Africa, 
and Europe, was initiated into several 
orders of priesthood, and raised to the 
sublime degree of a Master Mason. This 

* Theorem. — In any right-angled triangle, the square 
which is described upon the side subtending the right angle 
is equal to the squares described upon the sides which con- 
tain the right angle. — Undid, lib. i, prop. 47. 



88 FBEEMASOTTS MONITOR. 

wise philosopher enriched his mind abund- 
antly in a general knowledge of things, 
and more especially in geometry or Ma- 
sonry. On this subject he drew out many 
problems and theorems ; and among the 
most distinguished he erected this, which, 
in the joy of his heart, he called Eureka, 
in the Grecian language, signifying / have 
found it; and upon the discovery of which 
he is said to have sacrificed a hecatomb. 
It teaches Masons to be general lovers of 
the arts and sciences. 

THE HOUR-GLASS 

Is an emblem of human life. Behold! 
how swiftly the sands run, and how rap- 
idly our lives are drawing to a close! 
We can not without astonishment behold 
the little particles which are contained in 
this machine, how they pass away almost 
imperceptibly, and yet, to our surprise, in 
the short space of an hour, they are all 
exhausted. Thus wastes man! To-day 
he puts forth the tender leaves of hope; 
to-morrow blossoms, and bears his blush- 



freemason's monitor 89 

ing honors thick upon him; the next day 
comes a frost, which nips the shoot, and 
when he thinks his greatness is still as- 
piring, he falls like autumn leaves, to 
enrich our mother earth. 

THE SCYTHE 

Is an emblem of Time, which cuts the 
brittle thread of life, and launches us into 
eternity. Behold ! what havoc the scythe 
of Time makes among the human race! 
If by chance we should escape the numer- 
ous evils incident to childhood and youth, 
and with health and vigor arrive to the 
years of manhood, yet withal we must soon 
be cut down by the all-devouring scythe 
of Time, and be gathered into the Jand 
where our fathers have gone before us. 

SETTING MAUL. 

&*#■.***.*-*« 

SPADE. 

COFFIN. 
** + *?•**** 

EVERGREEN. 
**#"**■-*'*..'*•■'# 



90 freemason's monitor 

Here usually follows an exhortation to the practice 
of virtue. The following is a form much used. 

IVy OW, Brethren, let us see to it, and so 
-L i regulate our lives by the plumb-line 
of justice, ever squaring our actions by the 
rule of virtue, that when the Grand War- 
den of Heaven shall call for us we may be 
found ready. Let us cultivate assiduously 
the noble tenets of our profession, Brotherly 
Love, Belief] and Truth; and from the Square 
learn morality ; from the Level, equality ; 
and from the Plumb, rectitude of life. Let 
us imitate, in all his varied perfections, him 

Let us emulate his amiable and virtuous 
conduct, his unfeigned piety to his God, 
and his inflexible fidelity to his trust. As 
the evergreen which bloomed at the head 
of his grave betrayed the place of War- 
reris interment, so may virtue, by its ever- 
blooming loveliness, designate us as Free 
and Accepted Masons. 

With the Trowel spread liberally the 
cement of brotherly love and affection, 



freemason's monitor. 91 

circumscribed by the Compass ; let us pon- 
der well our words and actions, and let all 
the energies of our minds and the affections 
of our souls be employed in the attain- 
ment of our Supreme Grand Master's ap- 
probation ; then when our dissolution draws 
nigh, and the cold winds of death come 
sighing around us, and his chill dew already 
glistens on our brow, with joy shall we 
obey the summons of the Grand Warden 
of Heaven, and go from our labors on 
earth to everlasting refreshment in the 
Paradise of God; then by the benefit of a 
pass, a pure and blameless life, with a firm 
reliance on Divine Providence, shall we 
gain ready admission into that Celestial 
Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect 
of the Universe presides : where, seated 
at the right hand of our Supreme Grand 
Master, he will be pleased to pronounce us 
just and upright Masons ; then shall we be 
fitly prepared as living stones for that 
spiritual building, that house not made 
with hands, eternal in the heavens; where 
no discordant voice shall be heard, but all 



92 freemason's monitor. 

the soul shall experience shall be perfect 
bliss, and all it shall express shall be per- 
fect praise, and love divine shall ennoble 
every heart, and hosannas exalted em- 
ploy every tongue. 

CHARGE 

At Initiation into the Third Degree. 

BROTHER: Your zeal for the institu- 
tion of Masonry, the progress you 
have made in the mystery, and your con- 
formity to our regulations, have pointed 
you out as a proper object of our favor and 
esteem. 

You are now bound, by duty, honor, and 
gratitude, to be faithful to your trust; to 
support the dignity of your character on 
every occasion ; and to enforce, by precept 
and example, obedience to the tenets of the 
Order. 

In the character of a Master Mason you 
are authorized to correct the errors and 
irregularities of your uninformed brethren, 
and to guard them against a breach of 
fidelity. To preserve the reputation of 



freemason's monitor, 93 

the Fraternity unsullied must be your 
constant care ; and for this purpose it is 
your province to recommend to your in- 
feriors obedience and submission; to your 
equals, courtesy and affability ; to your 
superiors, kindness and condescension. 
Universal beneA r olence you are always to 
inculcate; and, -by the regularity of your 
own behavior, afford the best example for 
the conduct of others less informed. The 
ancient landmarks of the Order intrusted 
to your care you are carefully to preserve, 
and never suffer them to be infringed, or 
countenance a deviation from the estab- 
lished usages and customs of the Fra- 
ternity. 

Your virtue, honor, and reputation are 
concerned in supporting with dignity the 
character you now bear. Let no motive, 
therefore, make you swerve from your 
duty, violate your vows, or betray your 
trust; but be true and faithful, and imi- 
tate the example of that celebrated Artist 
whom you this evening represent. Thus 
you will render yourself deserving of the 
honor which we have conferred, and merit 
the confidence that we have reposed. 



94 freemason's monitor. 



CHAPTER XI. 

FUNERALS. 

The Ceremony observed at Funerals, according to ancient 

custom, with the Service used on the Occasion. 

NO Mason can be interred with the formalities 
of the Order unless it be, by his own special 
request, communicated to the Master of the Lodge of 
which he died a member, foreigners and sojourners 
excepted ; nor unless he has been advanced to the 
third degree of Masonry ; and from this restriction 
there can be no exception. Fellow-crafts, or appren- 
tices, are not entitled to funeral obsequies, nor to at- 
tend the Masonic procession on such occasions. 

The Master of a Lodge, having received notice of a 
Master Mason's death, and of his request to be in- 
terred with the ceremonies of the Order, fixes the 
day and hour for the funeral, and issues his com- 
mand to summon the Lodge. He may invite as many 
Lodges as he thinks proper, and the members of those 
Lodges may accompany their officers in form ; but the 
whole ceremony must be under the direction of the 
Master of the Lodge to which the deceased belonged, 
and he and his officers must be duly honored, and 
cheerfully obeyed on the occasion.* But in case the 
deceased was not a member of either of the attend- 
ing Lodges, the procession and ceremony must be 
under the direction of the Master of the oldest Lodge. 

All the brethren who walk in procession should 
observe, as much as possible, an uniformity in their 
dress. Decent mourning, with white stockings, 
gloves, and aprons, is most suitable. 

* Except when the Grand or Deputy Grand Master is pres- 
ent, and exercises his authority. 



freemason's monitor. 95 



MASONIC BURIAL SERVICE. 



The Brethren being assembled in the Lodge-room, the Master 
opens the Lodge on the Third Degree. 

The following service may be read in the Lodge-room, at 
the House, or at the Church, in the discretion of the Master. 

W, M. Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place 
in all generations. 

Bros. Before the mountains were brought forth, 
or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, 
even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God. 

W. M. Thou turnest man to destruction; and 
sayest, return, ye children of men. 

Bros. For a thousand years in Thy sight are but 
as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the 
night. 

W. M. Thou earnest them away as with a flood ; 
they are as asleep; in the morning they are like 
grass which groweth up. 

Bros. In the morning it flourisheth and groweth 
up ; in the evening it is cut down and withereth. 

W, M. For we are consumed by Thine anger, 
and by Thy wrath are we troubled. 

Bros. Thou hast set our iniquities before Thee, 
our secret sins in the light of Thy countenance. 

Bros. The days of our years are three-score years 
and ten, and if by reason of strength they be four- 
score, yet is their strength labor and sorrow, for it is 
soon cut off, and we fly away. 

W. M. Who knoweth the power of Thine anger? 
even according to Thy fear so is Thy wrath. 



96 freemason's monitor. 

Bros. So teach us to number our days that we 
may apply our hearts unto wisdom. 

W. M. Let us Pray: — 

Most glorious and merciful Lord God, author of 
all good, and giver of every perfect gift, pour down, 
we beseech Thee, Thy blessing upon us, and under 
the deep solemnities of this occasion, bind us yet 
closer together in the ties of brotherly love and 
affection. May the present instance of mortality 
remind us of our approaching fate, and may it have 
an influence to wean our affections from the things 
of this transitory world, and to fix them more devot- 
edly upon Thee, the only sure refuge in time of 
need : and at last, O God, when our dissolution 
draws nigh, when the silver cord shall be severed, 
and the golden bowl be broken, in the moment of 
mortal extremity, may the lamp of Thy love dispel 
the gloom of the dark valley, and may we be enabled 
to work an entrance into the Celestial Lodge above, 
and in Thy glorious presence, amidst its ineffable 
mysteries, enjoy a union with the souls of our 
departed friends, perfect as is the happiness of 
Heaven and durable as is the eternity of God. — - 
Amen. 

Bros. So mote it be. 



freemason's monitor. 



97 



ORDER OF PROCESSION. 

Tyler, with a Drawn Sword, 
g Musicians (if not Masons). 

> Stewards, with White Rods. 

£| Musicians (if they are Masons). 
►fj _ Master Masons. 

jjs. Senior and Junior Deacons. 

f-< Secretary and Treasurer. 

Senior and Junior Wardens. 
Past Masters. 
The Holy Writings. 
On a cushion covered with black cloth, carried by the Oldest Member of ' 
the Lodge. 
The Master. 
Clergy. 



The 
with the Apron 




Body 

placed thereon. 

Pall Bearers. 



On arriving at the grave, the Worshipful Master takes his 
place at the head of the grave, the Senior Warden at the foot, 
and the Junior Warden at the south side. The friends of the 
deceased standing behind the Senior Warden ; the Holy Writ- 
ings on the right of the Master, and the Brethren encircling the 
whole. 

The Worshipful Master then says : 

Brethren, the solemn notes that betoken the disso- 
lution of this earthly tabernacle have again alarmed 
our outer door, and another spirit has been removed 
to the land where our fathers have gone before us. 
Again are we called to assemble among the habita- 
tions of the dead, to behold the narrow house 
appointed for all living. Here around us, in that 
peace which the world cannot give, sleep the unnum- 
bered dead. The gentle breezes fan their verdant 
covering, they heed it not; the sunshine and the 
storm pass over them, and they are not disturbed ; 
stones and lettered monuments symbolize the affec- 



98 FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 

tion of surviving friends, yet no sounds proceed 
from them, save that silent, but thrilling admoni- 
tion, "seek ye the narrow path and the straight gate 
that lead unto eternal life." 

The occasion admonishes us to consider the 
uncertainty of human life ; the immutable certainty 
of death, and the vanity of all earthly pursuits. 
Decrepitude and decay are written upon every living 
thing. The cradle and the coffin stand in juxtapo- 
sition to each other ; and, it is a melancholy truth, 
that so soon as we begin to live, that moment also 
we begin to die. Weakness and imperfection are 
the incidents of our fallen condition. What an 
eloquent commentary is here exhibited upon the 
instability of every human pursuit, and how touch- 
ingly does it echo the sad sentiment of the great 
preacher who wrote for our perpetual warning, the 
immortal text, "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." 

The last offices, which we pay to the dead, are 
vain, except as they constitute lessons to the living. 
The cold, marble form enclosed in the narrow house 
before you, is alike insensible to our sorrows and 
our ceremonies. It matters not now to him whether 
two or three gather around the grave to perform his 
funeral ritual, or that hundreds have assembled, with 
the insignia of the craft, to deposit him in his final 
resting place. It is of little moment whether the 
wild winds chant his requiem or it be accompanied 
with rare and costly music and the minstrelsy of 
many voices. He has gone to accomplish the des- 
tiny of our race ; his body, in the profound slumber 
of the grave, to be dissolved into its original ele- 
ments. What then are all the externals of human 



freemason's monitor. 99 

dignity, power of wealth, dreams of ambition, pride 
of intellect, or the charms of beauty, when nature 
has paid her last debt. The monarch of a hundred 
provinces, at whose bidding nations pay obeisance ; 
and the poor beggar, who shivers at his gate, are 
equals in the house of death. The one, is obliged to 
part with his sceptre and crown ; the other, has no 
further use for his wallet and rags — both are indebted 
to mother earth for a common sepulchre. In the 
grave all fallacies are detected, all ranks are leveled, 
and all distinctions vanish. While we drop the 
sympathetic tear over the grave of our departed 
brother, let us cast around his foibles, whatever they 
may have been, the broad mantle of Masonic char- 
ity, nor withhold from his memory the commenda- 
tion that his virtues deserve. 

The coffin is then lowered into the grave, the apron having 
been previously taken from the coffin and handed to the W. M. 
who raises it in his hand and says : 

This lamb-skin or white apron, which is the em- 
blem of innocence and the badge of a Mason, I now 
deposit in the grave of our deceased Brother; by it 
we are reminded of the universal dominion of death. 

The Worshipful Master, holding a sprig of evergreen is his 
hand, says: 

This evergreen, which once marked the tem- 
porary resting place of the illustrious dead, is an 
emblem of our faith in the immortality of the soul. 
By this we are reminded that we have an immortal 
part within us, that shall survive the grave, and 
which shall never, never, no never die. This, too, I 
deposit in the grave. 

The Brethren will then unite in singing the following hymn, 
and while singing, march in single file around the grave, and as 
each brother passes the head of the grave, he will deposit 
therein a sprig of evergreen. 



100 freemason's monitor. 

MUSIC : 
PleyeFs Hymn. 
Solemn strikes the fun'ral chime, 
Notes of our departing time; 
As we journey here below, 
Through a pilgrimage of woe. 

Mortals, now indulge a tear, 
For mortality is here ; 
See how wide her trophies wave 
O'er the slumbers of the grave. 

Here another guest we bring, 
Seraphs of celestial wing; 
To our fun'ral altar come, 
Waft our friend and brother home. 

Lord of all, below, above, 
Fill our souls with truth and love : 
As dissolves our earthly tie, 
Take us to thy lodge on high. 

The W. M., S. W., and J. W. each having taken up a hand- 
full of earth and dropping it into the grave. 

The W. M. says— Earth to Earth!!! 
The S. W. says— Ashes to Ashes!! 
The J. W. says— Dust to Dust ! 

The Funeral Grand Honors shall then be given in the manner 
following — the Worshipful Master or other officiating Brother 
repeating : 

"We deposit the body of our deceased brother in 

the grave ; 
We treasure his memory in our hearts ; 
We commend his spirit to God, who gave it." 

When the first sentence is being repeated, the brethren will 
at the same time with the W. M., raise both hands to a level 
with the elbow, extending them slightly in front of the body. 



freemason's monitor. 101 

hands open and both palms down ; then as the second sentence 
is being repeated, all will cross their hands upon their breasts; 
and as the third sentence is being repeated, all will extend their 
arms to the front, then raising the hands so that the arms will 
be at an angle of about forty-five degrees; and as the sentence 
is finished, let the hands fall naturally to the side. 

The W. M., resuming, says: 

From time immemorial it has been the custom 
among the fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, 
at the request of a brother, to accompany his remains 
to the place of interment, and there to deposit them 
with the usual ceremonies. In conformity with this 
usage, and at the request of our deceased brother, 
whose memory we cherish and whose loss we now 
deplore, we have assembled in the character of 
Masons to offer up to his memory, before the world, 
the last tribute of our affection; thereby demonstrat- 
ing the sincerity of our past esteem for him, and 
our steady attachment to the principles of the Craft. 

To those of his immediate friends and relatives, 
who are most heart-stricken at the loss we have all 
sustained, we have but little of this world's conso- 
lation to offer. We can only sincerely, deeply and 
most affectionately sympathize with them in their 
bereavement ; but we can assure them that He who 
tempers the wind to the shorn lamb, looks down 
with infinite compassion upon the widow and the 
fatherless in the hour of their desolation, and that the 
Great Architect will fold the arms of His love and 
protection around those who put their trust in HIM. 

And my brethren, let us ponder well the lesson of 
this hour. We are all born to die — we follow our 
friends to the brink of the grave, and standing on 
the shore of a vast ocean, gaze with exquisite anxiety 
until the last dread struggle is over, and see them 



102 freemason's monitor. 

sink in the fathomless abyss. We feel our own feet 
slip from the precarious bank upon which we stand, 
and but a few suns more, and we, too, shall be 
whelmed mid death's awful wave, to rest in the stilly 
shade and darkness, and silence reign around our 
melancholy abode. But is this the end of man and 
the expiring hope of all faithful Masons? No, 
blessed be God ; we pause not on the first or second 
step, but true to our profession, we look forward for 
greater light. As the embers of mortality are feebly 
glimmering in the socket of existence, the Bible, 
that great light, removes the dark cloud, draws aside 
the sable curtains of the tomb, and bids hope and 
joy rouse up and support the drooping spirit. It 
points beyond the tomb, and bids us turn an eye of 
hope and confidence on the opening scenes of 
eternity. 

Then, my brethren, let us so live that when our 
dissolution draws nigh, the entrance to the dark 
valley and shadow of death may be illuminated by 
the consciousness of a well-spent life, and the hope 
of a glorious immortality. 

And may Almighty God, in His infinite goodness, 
extend His mercy towards him and all of us. Amen. 

The brethren then respond. 

"So mote it be." 
The procession will then return to the Lodge-room. 



freemason's monitor. 103 

CEREMONY OF CONSTITUTION AND 
CONSECRATION. 

On the day and hour appointed, the Grand Master 
and his officers meet in a convenient room near the 
Lodge to be constituted, and open in the third degree. 
After the officers in the new Lodge are examined by 
the Deputy Grand Master, they send a Messenger to 
the Grand Master, with the following message, viz : 

Most Worshipful: 

The officers and brethren of 



Lodge, who are now assembled in their 

lodge-room at , have instructed me 

to inform you, that the Most Worshipful 
Grand Lodge was pleased to grant them 
a charter, authorizing them to form and 
open a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons 
in the town of . They are now de- 
sirous that their Lodge should be conse- 
crated, and their officers installed in due 
and ancient form; for which purpose they 
are now met, and await the pleasure of the 
Most Worshipful Grand Master. 

When notice is given, the Grand Lodge walk in 
procession to the hall of the new Lodge. When the 
Grand Master enters, the grand honors are given by 



104 freemason's monitor. 

the new Lodge ; the officers of which resign their seats 
to the grand officers, and take their several stations on 
the left. 

The necessary cautions are given, and all, excepting 
Present or Past Masters of Lodges, are requested to 
retire, until the Master of the new Lodge is inducted 
into the Oriental Chair of Solomon. He is then bound 
to the faithful performance of his trust, and invested 
with the characteristics of the chair. 

Upon due notice, the Grand Marshal re-conducts 
the brethren into the hall, and all take their places, 
except the members of the new Lodge, who form a 
procession on one side of the hall. As they advance, 
the Grand Master addresses them. 

" Brethren, behold your Master." 

They make the proper salutation as they pass. 
A. grand procession is then formed, in the following 
order, viz : 

Tyler witb a drawn sword ; 

Two Stewards with white rods ; 

Entered Apprentices; 

Fellow-Crafts; 

Master Masons ; 

3! Stewards ; 

3 Junior Deacons; 

S. Senior Deacons ; 

Secretaries ; 

Treasurers ; 

Past Wardens ; 

Junior Wardens; 

Senior Wardens ; 

Past Masters ; 

Mark Masters; 



freemason's monitor. 106 

Royal Arch Masons ; 

Select Masters ; 
Knights Templars ; 
Masters of Lodges. 

THE NEW LODGE. 

Tyler with a drawn sword; 

Stewards with white rods; 

Entered Apprentices ; 

Fellow-Crafts; 

Master Masons ; 

Junior and Senior Deacons ; 

Secretary and Treasurer ; 

Two brethren carrying the Flooring,* or Lodge ; 

Junior and Senior Wardens; 

The Holy Writings, carried by the oldest or some suitable 

member not in office; 

The W. Master ; 

Music. 

THE GRAND LODGE. 

Grand Tyler with drawn sword; 
Grand Stewards with white rods ; 
A brother carrying a golden vessel of corn ;f 
Two brethren carrying the silver vessels — one of wine, the 
other of oil ; 
Grand Secretaries; 
Grand Treasurer ; 
A burning taper, borne by a Past Master; 
A Past Master, bearing the Holy Writings, Square, and Com- 
passes, supported by two Stewards with white rods ; 
Two burning tapers, borne by two Past Masters ; 
The Tuscan and Composite Orders ; 
The Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian Orders ; 
Past Grand Wardens ; 
§ Past Deputy Grand Masters ; 
2 Past Grand Masters ; 

| The Globes j 

Clergy and Orator ; 
R. W. Junior and Senior Grand Wardens ; 

•Carpet. f Wheat. 



106 freemason's monitor. 

R. W. Deputy Grand Master ; 
The Master of the Oldest Lodge, carrying the Book of Consti- 
tutions ; 
The M. W. Grand Master; 
The Grand Deacons, on a line seven feet apart, on the right 
and left of the Grand Master, with black rods ; 
Grand Sword Bearer with a draAvn sword ; 
Two Stewards with white rods. 

The Marshals conduct the procession to the church 
or house where the services are to be performed. 
When the front of the procession arrives at the door, 
they halt, open to the right and left, and face inward ; 
while the Grand Master and others, in succession, pass 
through and enter the house. A platform is erected 
in front of the pulpit, and provided with seats for the 
accommodation of the Grand Officers. 

The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, and Book 
of Constitutions are placed upon a table in front of 
the Grand Master. The flooring is then spread in 
the center, upon the platform, covered with white 
satin or linen, and encompassed by the three tapers, 
and the vessels of corn, wine, and oil. 

Services. 

1. A piece of Music. 

2. Prayer. 

3. An Oration. 

4. A piece of Music. 

5. The Grand Marshal forms the officers and 
members of the new Lodge in front of the Grand 
Master. The Deputy Grand Master addresses the 
Grand Master as follows : 



freemason's monitor. 107 

Most Worshipful : 

A number of brethren, duly instructed 
in the mysteries of Masonry, having as- 
sembled together at stated periods, by 
virtue of a dispensation granted them for 
that purpose, do now desire to be consti- 
tuted into a regular Lodge, agreeably to the 
ancient usages and customs of the Fra- 
ternity. 

The dispensation and records are presented to the 
Grand Master, who examines the records, and, if 
found correct, proclaims : 

The records appear to be correct, and 
are approved. Upon due deliberation, 
the Grand Lodge have granted the breth- 
ren of this new Lodge a charter, establish- 
ing and confirming them in the rights and 
privileges of a regularly constituted Lodge, 
which the Grand Secretary will now read. 

After the charter is read, the Grand Master then 
says : 

We shall now proceed, according to 
ancient usage, to constitute these brethren 
into a regular Lodge. 



108 freemason's monitor. 

Whereupon the several officers of the new Lodge 
deliver up their jewels and badges to the Master, who. 
presents them, with his own, to the Deputy Grand 
Master, and he to the Grand Master. 

The Deputy Grand Master presents the Master elect 
to the Grand Master, saying : 

Most Wokshipful Gtrand Master: 

I present my worthy Brother A. B. to 
be installed Master of this (new) Lodge. 
I find him to be of good morals and great 
skill, true and trusty ; and as he is a lover 
of our whole fraternity, wheresoever dis- 
persed over the face of the earth, I doubt 
not that he will discharge his duty with 
fidelity. 

The Grand Master asks them if they remain satis- 
fied with their choice. [They bow in token of assent."] 

The Master elect then presents, severally, his 
Wardens and other officers, naming them and their 
respective offices. The Grand Master asks .the breth- 
ren if they remain satisfied with each and all of them. 
\They bow as before.'] 

The officers and members of the new Lodge form in 
front of the Grand Master ; and the business of 
Consecration commences with solemn music. 



freemason's monitor. 109 

Ceremony of Consecration. 

The Grand Master, attended by the Grand Officers 
and the Grand Chaplain, .form themselves in order 
round the Lodge — all devoutly kneeling. 

A piece of solemn music is performed, while the 
Lodge is uncovered. 

After which, the first clause of the Consecration 
Prayer is rehearsed by the Grand Chaplain, which is 
as follows : 

"Great Architect of the Universe! 
Maker and Ruler of all worlds! deign, 
from thy celestial temple, from realms of 
light and glory, to bless ns in all the 
purposes of our present assembly. We 
humbly invoke thee to give us at this 
and at all times wisdom in all our doings, 
strength of mind in all our difficulties, and 
the beauty of harmony in all our commu- 
nications. Permit us, thou Author of 
light and life, great Source of love and 
happiness, to erect this Lodge, and now 
solemnly to consecrate it to the honor of 
thy glory. 

"Glory be to God on high." 

[Response by the Brethren.^ 



110 FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

"As it was in the beginning, is now, 
and ever shall be; world without end. 
Amen. So mote it be. 

The Deputy Grand Master takes the Golden Vessel 
of Corn, and i>e Senior and Junior Grand Wardens 
tak* 1 *ho 3ilver Vessels of Wine and Oil, and sprinkle 
the elements of consecration upon the Lodge. 

The Grand Chaplain then continues : 

" Grant, Lord, our Grocl, that those 
who are now about to be invested with 
the government of this Lodge, may be 
endued with wisdom to instruct their 
brethren in all their duties. May brotherly 
love, relief, and truth always prevail among 
the members of this Lodge ; and may this 
bond of union continue to strengthen the 
Lodges throughout the world. 

"Bless all our brethren, wherever dis- 
persed ; and grant speedy relief to all who 
are either oppressed or distressed. 

" We affectionately commend to thee 
ail the members of thy whole family. 
May they increase in grace, in the knowl- 
edge of thee, and in the love of each 
other. 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. Ill 

"Finally : may we finish all our work 
here below with thy approbation ; and 
then have our transition from this earthly 
abode to thy heavenly temple above, there 
to enjoy light, glory, and bliss, ineffable 
and eternal ! 

" Glory be to God on high." 

[Response by the Brethren. ~] 

"As it was in the beginning, xS now, 
and ever shall be ; world without end. 
Amen. 

8. A piece of solemn music is performed while the 
Carpet is covered. 

9. The Grand Chaplain then dedicates the Lodge 
in the following terms : 

"To the memory of the HOLY STS. 
JOHN we dedicate this Lodge. May 
every brother revere their character, and 
imitate their virtues. 

"Glory be to God on high." 

\_Response.~\ 

"As it was in the beginning, is now, 
and ever shall be ; world without end. 
Amen. So mote it be." 



112 freemason's monitor. 

10. A piece of music is performed, while the 
brethren of the new Lodge advance in procession to 
salute the Grand Lodge, with their hands crossed 
upon their breasts as they pass. They then take 
their places as they were. 

11. The Grand Master then rises and constitutes 
the new Lodge in the form following : 

" In the name of the Most Worshipful 
Grand Lodge, I now constitute and form 
you, my beloved brethren, into a regular 
Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. 
From henceforth I empower you to meet 
as a regular Lodge, constituted in con- 
formity to the rights of our Order, and the 
charges of our ancient and honorable 
Fraternity; and may the Supreme Ar- 
chitect of the Universe prosper, direct, and 
counsel you in all your doings. Amen. 

Response-. " So mote it be." 



freemason's monitor. 113 

CHAPTER XII. 

CEEEMONT OF INSTALLATION". 

fT^HE Grand Master* asks his deputy, " Whether 
_1_ he has examined the Master nominated in the 
warrant, and finds him well skilled in the noble sci- 
ence and the royal art." The deputy, answering in 
the affirmative, f by the Grand Master's order, takes 
the candidate from among his fellows, and presents 
him at the pedestal, saying, 

Most Woeshipful G-eand Mastee, 

I present my worthy brother, A. B., to 
be installed Master of this (new) Lodge. I 
find him to be of good morals, and of great 
skill, true and trusty ; and as he is a lover 
of the whole Fraternity, wheresoever dis- 
persed over the face of the earth, I doubt 
not that he will discharge his duty with 
fidelity.- 

The Grand Master then addresses him: 

Beothee, 

Previous to your investiture, it is neces- 
sary that you should signify your assent 

* In this, and other similar instances, where the Grand 
Master is specified in acting, may he understood any Master 
who performs the ceremony. 

t A priyate examination is understood to precede the in- 
stallation of every oflBcer. 



114 freemason's monitor. 

to those ancient charges and regulations 
which point out the duty of a Master of a 
Lodge. 

The Grand Master then reads, or orders to be read 
a summary of the ancient charges to the Master elect, 
as follows, viz. : 

I. You agree to be a good man and true, 
and strictly to obey the moral law. 

II. You agree to be a peaceable subject, 
and cheerfully to conform to the laws of 
the country in which you reside. 

III. You promise not to be concerned 
in plots and conspiracies against govern- 
ment, but patiently to submit to the de- 
cisions of the supreme legislature. 

IV. You agree to pay a proper respect 
to the civil magistrate, to work diligently, 
live creditably, and act honorably by all 
men. 

V. You agree to hold in veneration the 
original rulers and patrons of the Order of 
Masonry, and their regular successors, su- 
preme and subordinate, according to their 
stations ; and to submit to the awards and 
resolutions of your brethren when con- 
vened, in every case consistent with the 
constitutions of the Order. 



freemason's monitor. 115 

VI. You agree to avoid private piques 
and quarrels, and to guard against intem- 
perance and excess. 

VII. You agree to be cautious in car- 
riage and behavior, courteous to your 
brethren, and faithful to your Lodge. 

VIII. You promise to respect genuine 
brethren, and to discountenance impostors, 
and all dissenters from the original plan 
of Masonry. 

IX. You agree to promote the general 
good of society, to cultivate the social vir- 
tues, and to propagate the knowledge of 
the art. 

X. You promise to pay homage to the 
Grand Master for the time being, and to 
his officers when duly installed ; and strict- 
ly to conform to every edict of the Grand 
Lodge, or general assembly of Masons, 
that is not subversive of the principles and 
ground-work of Masonry. 

XL You admit that it is not in the 
power of any man, or body of men, to 
make innovations in the body of Ma- 
sonry. 

XII. You promise a regular attendance 
on the committees and communications of 
the Grand Lodge, on receiving proper no- 



116 freemason's monitor. 

tice, and to pay attention to all the duties 
of Masonry on convenient occa-sions. 

XIII. You admit that no new Lodge 
shall be formed without permission of the 
Grand Lodge ; and that no countenance be 
given to any irregular Lodge, or to any 
person clandestinely initiated therein, be- 
ing contrary to the ancient charges of the 
Order. 

XIV. You admit that no person can be 
regularly made a Mason in, or admitted a 
member of, any regular Lodge, without 
previous notice, and due inquiry into his 
character. 

XV. You agree that no visitors shall be 
received into your Lodge without due ex- 
amination, and producing proper vouchers 
of their having been initiated in a regular 
Lodge. 

These are the regulations of Free and Accepted 
Masons. 

The Grand Master then addresses the Master elect 
in the following manner : 

Do you submit to these charges, and 
promise to support these regulations, as 
Masters have done in all ages before you ? 

The new Master having signified his cordial sub- 



freemason's monitor. 117 

mission as before, the Grand Master thus addresses 
him : 

Brother A. B., in consequence of your 
cheerful conformity to the charges and reg- 
ulations of the Order, you are now to be 
installed Master of this (new) Lodge, in full 
confidence of your care, skill, and capacity 
to govern the same. 

The new Master is then regularly invested with the 
insignia of his office, and the furniture and imple- 
ments of his Lodge. 

The various implements of the profession are em- 
blematical of our conduct in life, and upon this occa- 
sion carefully enumerated. 

The Holy Writings, that great light in 
Masonry, will guide you to all truth ; it 
will direct your paths to the temple of 
happiness, and point out to you the whole 
duty of man. 

The Square teaches to regulate our ac- 
tions by rule and line, and to harmonize 
our conduct by the principles of morality 
and virtue. 

The Compass teaches to limit our desires 
in every station, that, rising to eminence 
by merit, we may live respected and die 
regretted. 

The Rule directs that we should punctu- 



118 freemason's monitor. 

ally observe our duty, press forward in 
the path of virtue, and, neither inclining 
to the right nor to the left, in all our ac- 
tions have eternity in view. 

The Line teaches the criterion of moral 
rectitude, to avoid dissimulation in conver- 
sation and action, and to direct our steps 
to the path which leads to immortality. 

The Book of Constitutions you are to 
search at all times. Cause it to be read 
in your Lodge, that none may pretend ig- 
norance of the excellent precepts it enjoins. 

Lastly, you receive in charge the By- 
laws of your Lodge, which you are to see 
carefully and punctually executed. 

The jewels of the officers of the (new) Lodge being 
then returned to the Master, he delivers them, respect- 
ively, to the several officers of the Grand Lodge, ac- 
cording to their rank. 

The subordinate officers of the (new) Lodge are then 
invested with their jewels by the grand officers of 
corresponding rank ; and are by them, severally in 
turn, conducted to the Grand Master, who delivers 
each of them a short charge, as follows, viz. : 

THE SENIOR WARDEN. 

Brother CD., you are appointed Senior 
Warden of this new Lodge, and are now 
invested with the ensign of your office. 



freemason's monitor. 119 

The Level demonstrates that we are de- 
scended from the same stock, partake of 
the same nature, and share the same hope ; 
and, though distinctions among men are 
necessary to preserve subordination, yet 
no eminence of station should make us for- 
get that we are brethren ; for he who is 
placed on the lowest spoke of fortune's 
wheel may be entitled to our regard ; be- 
cause, a time will come, and the wisest 
knows not how soon, when all distinctions, 
but that of goodness, shall cease ; and 
death, the grand leveler of human great- 
ness, reduce us to the same state. 

Your regular attendance on our stated 
meetings is essentially necessary: in the 
absence of the Master you are to govern 
this Lodge ; in his presence, you are to 
assist him in the government of it. I 
firmly rely on your knowledge of Masonry, 
and attachment to the Lodge, for the faith- 
ful discharge of the duties of this import- 
ant trust. Look well to the West ! 

THE JUNIOR WARDEN. 

Brother E. F., you are appointed Junior 
Warden of this (new) Lodge, and are now 
invested with the badge of your office. 



120 freemason's monitor. 

The Plumb admonishes us to walk up- 
rightly in our several stations, to hold the 
scale of justice in equal poise, to observe 
the just medium between intemperance 
and pleasure, and to make our passions 
and prejudices coincide with the line of 
our duty. 

To you, with such assistance as may be 
necessary, is intrusted the examination of 
visitors, and the reception of candidates. 
To you is also committed the superintend- 
ence of the Craft during the hours of re- 
freshment ; it is, therefore, indispensably 
necessary, that you should not only be 
temperate and discreet, in the indulgence 
of your own inclinations, but carefully ob- 
serve that none of the Craft be suffered to 
convert the purposes of refreshment into 
intemperance and excess. 

Your regular and punctual attendance 
is particularly requested ; and I have no 
doubt that you will faithfully execute the 
duty which you owe to your present ap- 
pointment. Look ivell to the South ! 

THE TREASURER. 

Brother Gr. H., you are appointed Treas- 
urer of this (new) Lodge. It is your duty 



freemason's monitor. 121 

to receive all moneys from the hands of 
the Secretary, keep just and regular ac- 
counts of the same, and pay them out at 
the Worshipful Master's will and pleasure, 
with the consent of the Lodge. I trust 
your regard for the Fraternity will prompt 
you to the faithful discharge of the duties 
of your office. 

THE SECRETARY. 

Brother I. K., you are appointed Sec- 
retary of this (new) Lodge. It is your duty 
to observe the Worshipful Master's will 
and pleasure, to record the proceedings of 
the Lodge, to receive all moneys, and pay 
them into the hands of the Treasurer. 

Your good inclination to Masonry and 
this Lodge, I hope, will induce you to dis- 
charge your office with fidelity, and by so 
doing you will merit the esteem and ap- 
plause of your brethren. 

THE SENIOR AND JUNIOR DEACONS. 

Brothers L. M. and N. 0., you are ap- 
pointed Deacons of this (new) Lodge. It is 
your province to attend on the Master and 
Wardens, and to act as their proxies in 
the active duties of the Lodge ; such as in 



122 freemason's monitor. 

the reception of candidates into the differ- 
ent degrees of Masonry ; the introduction 
and accommodation of visitors, and in the 
immediate practice of our rites. Those 
columns, as badges of your office, I trust 
to your care, not doubting your vigilance 
and attention. 

THE STEWARDS. 

Brothers P. Q. and R. S., you are ap- 
pointed Stewards of this (new) Lodge. 
The duties of your office are, to assist in 
the collection of dues and subscriptions, 
to keep an account of the Lodge expenses, 
to see that the tables are properly fur- 
nished at refreshment, and that every 
brother is suitably provided for ; and gen- 
erally to assist the Deacons and other offi- 
cers in performing their respective duties. 
Your regular and early attendance will 
afford the best proof of your zeal and at- 
tachment to the Lodge. 

THE TYLER. 

Brother T. XL, you are elected Tyler of 
this Lodge, and I invest you with the im- 
plement of your office. As the sword is 
placed in the hands of the Tyler, to en- 



freemason's monitor. 1^3 

able him effectually to guard against the 
approach of cowans and eavesdroppers, 
and suffer none to pass but such as are 
duly qualified ; so it should morally serve 
as a constant admonition to us, to set a 
guard at the entrance of our thoughts, to 
place a watch at the door of our lips, and 
to post a sentinel over our actions : there- 
by excluding every unqualified and un- 
worthy thought, word, and deed ; and pre- 
serving consciences void of offense toward 
G-od and toward man. Your early and 
punctual attendance will afford the best 
proof of your zeal for the institution. 

The Grand Master then addresses the officers and 
members of the (new) Lodge as follows : 

CHARGE 

Upon the Installation of the Officers of a Lodge. 

WORSHIPFUL MASTER: The 
Grand Lodge having committed 
to your care the superintendence and gov- 
ernment of the brethren who are to com 
pose this (new) Lodge, you can not be in- 
sensible of the obligations which devolve 
on you, as their head ; nor of your respons- 
ibility for the faithful discharge of the im- 



124 freemason's monitor. 

portant duties annexed to your appoint- 
ment. 

The honor, reputation, and usefulness 
of your Lodge will materially depend on 
the skill and assiduity with which you 
manage its concerns ; while the happiness 
of its members will be generally promoted, 
in proportion to the zeal and ability with 
which you propagate the genuine princi- 
ples of our institution. 

For a pattern of imitation, consider the 
great luminary of nature, which, rising in 
the East, regularly diffuses light and luster 
to all within its circle. In like manner it 
is your province to spread and communi- 
cate light and instruction to the brethren 
of your Lodge. Forcibly impress upon 
them the dignity and high importance of 
Masonry; and seriously admonish them 
never to disgrace it. Charge them to prac- 
tice, out of the Lodge, those duties which 
they have been taught in it ; and by ami- 
able, discreet, and virtuous conduct, to con- 
vince mankind of the goodness of the in- 
stitution ; so that, when any one is said to 
be a member of it, the world may know 
that he is one to whom the burdened 
heart may pour out its sorrows ; to whom 



freemason's monitor. 125 

distress may prefer its suit ; whose hand is 
guided by justice, and his heart expanded 
by benevolence. In short, by a diligent 
observance of the by-laws of your Lodge, 
the constitutions of Masonry, and above all 
the Holy Scriptures, which are given as a 
rule and guide to your faith, you will be 
enabled to acquit yourself with honor and 
reputation, and lay up a crown of rejoicing, 
which shall continue when time shall be 
no more. 

Brother Senior and Junior Wardens : 

You are too well acquainted with the 
principles of Masonry to warrant any ap- 
prehension that you will be found wanting 
in the discharge of your respective duties. 
Suffice it to mention, that what you have 
seen praiseworthy in others you should 
carefully imitate ; and what in them may 
have appeared defective you should in 
yourselves amend. You should be exam- 
ples of good order and regularity ; for it is 
only by a clue regard to the laws in your 
own conduct, that you can expect obedience 
to them from others. You are assiduously 
to assist the Master in the discharge of 
his trust, diffusing light and imparting 



126 freemason's monitor. 

knowledge to all whom he shall place un- 
der your care. In the absence of the Mas- 
ter, you will succeed to higher duties ; your 
acquirements must therefore be such, as 
that the Craft may never suffer for want 
of proper instruction. From the spirit 
which you have hitherto evinced, I enter 
tain no doubt that your future conduct will 
be such as to merit the applause of your 
brethren, and the testimony of a good con- 
science. 

Brethren of Lodge : 

Such is the nature of our constitution, 
that as some must of necessity rule and 
teach, so others must of course learn to 
submit and obey. Humility in both is an 
essential duty. The officers who are ap- 
pointed to govern your Lodge are suffi- 
ciently conversant with the rules of pro- 
priety and the laws of the institution, to 
avoid exceeding the powers with which 
they are intrusted ; and you are of too 
generous dispositions to envy their pre- 
ferment. I therefore trust that you will 
have but one aim : to please each other, and 
unite in the grand design of being happy 
and communicating happiness. 



FREEMASON'S MONITOR. 127 

Finally, my brethren, as this association 
has been formed and perfected in so much 
unanimity and concord, in which we great- 
ly rejoice, so may it long continue. May 
you long enjoy every satisfaction and de- 
light which disinterested friendship can 
afford. May kindness and brotherly affec- 
tion distinguish your conduct as men and 
as Masons. Within your peaceful walls, 
may your children's children celebrate with 
joy and gratitude the transactions of this 
auspicious solemnity. And may the tenets 
of our profession be transmitted through 
your Lodge, pure and unimpaired, from 
generation to generation. 

The Grand Marshal then proclaims the new 
Lodge in the following manner, viz. : 

In the name of the Most Worshipful 
Grand Lodge of the State of , I pro- 
claim this new Lodge, by the name of 
Lodge, duly constituted. 

This proclamation is made thrice, and each time 
followed with a flourish of drums or trumpets. 

The Grand Chaplain then makes the concluding 
prayer, which ends the public ceremonies. 

The grand procession is then formed in the same 
order as before, and returns to the hall. 



128 freemason's monitor. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

CEREMONY OF LAYING THE FOUNDATION 
STONES OF PUBLIC STRUCTURES 

THIS ceremony is conducted by the M. W. Grand 
Master and his officers, assisted by such officers 
and members of subordinate Lodges as can conveniently 
attend. The chief magistrate, and other civil officers 
of the place where the building is to be ejected, also 
generally attend on the occasion. 

At the time appointed, the Grand Lodge is con- 
vened in some suitable place. A band of martial 
music is provided, and the brethren appear in the 
insignia of the Order. 

The Lodge is then opened by the Grand Master, 
and the rules for regulating the procession are read 
by the Grand Secretary. The Lodge is then adjourned , 
after which the procession sets out in due form, in 
the following order : 

Procession at Laying Foundation Stones. 

Two Tylers with drawn Swords ; 

Tyler of the oldest Lodge with a drawn Sword; 

Two Stewards of the oldest Lodge; 

Entered Apprentices; 

Fel low- Crafts; 

Master Masons ; 

Past Secretaries ; 

g Past Treasurers ; 

2 Past Junior Wardens ; 

is" 

£. Past Senior Wardens ; 

Mark Masters ; 



freemason's monitor. 129 

Past Masters; 
Royal Arch Masons j 

Select Masters ; 
Knights Templars ; 
Masters ; 
Music ; 
Grand Tyler with a drawn Sword ; 
Grand Stewards with white Rods j 
A Past Master with a Golden Vessel containing Corn j 
Principal Architect with Square, Level and Plumb; 
Two Past Masters with Silver Vessels, one containing Wine, 
and the other Oil ; 
Grand Secretary and Treasurer ; 
The Five Orders ; 
One large light, borne by a Past Master; 
The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, borne by a Master of 
a Lodge, supported by two Stewards on 
the right and left ; 
Two large Lights, borne by two Past Masters j 
Grand Chaplain ; 
Clergy and Orator ; 
Grand Wardens; 
Deputy Grand Master; 
The Master of the oldest Lodge, carrying the Book of Consti- 
tutions on a velvet cushion ; 
Grand Deacons with black Rods, on a line seven feet apart • 
Grand Master ; 
Two Stewards with white Rods ; 
Grand Sword-bearer with a drawn Sword. 



A Triumphal Arch is usually erected at the place 
where the ceremony is to be performed. The pro 
cession passes through the arch ; and the brethren 
repairing to their stands, the Grand Master and his 
officers take their places on a temporary platforru, 
covered with carpet. The Grand Master commands 
silence. An Ode on Masonry is sung ; after which, 
the necessary prenarations aro marU p or laying the 
9 



130 freemason's monitor. 

etone, on which is engraved the year of Masonry, the 
name and title of the Grand Master, etc., etc. 

The stone is raised up, by means of an engine 
erected for that purpose, and the Grand Chaplain or 
Orator repeats a short prayer. 

The Grand Treasurer, then, by the Grand Master's 
command, places under the stone various sorts of coin 
and medals of the present age. Solemn music i? 
introduced, and the stone is let down into its place. 

The principal architect then presents the working 
tools to the Grand Master, who applies the plumb, 
square, and level to the stone, in their proper posi- 
tions, and pronounces it to be well formed, true, 
and trusty. 

The golden and silver vessels are next brought to 
the table and delivered ; the former to tho Deputy 
Grand Master, and the latter to the Grand Wardens, 
who successively present them to the Grand Master ; 
and he, according to ancient ceremony, pours the 
corn, the wine, and the oil which they contain on 
the stone, saying : 

" May the all-bounteous Author of Na- 
ture bless the inhabitants of this place 
with all the necessaries, conveniences, and 
comforts of this life ; assist in the erection 
and completion of this building; protect 
the workmen against every accident, and 



freemason's monitor. 131 

long preserve this structure from decay; 
and grant to us all a supply of the cokn 
of nourishment, the wine of refreshment, 
and the oil of joy! 

"Amen. So mote it be." 

He then strikes the stone thrice with the mallet; 
and the public grand honors are given* The Grand 
Master then delivers over to the Architect the various 
implements of architecture, intrusting him with the 
superintendence and direction of the work ; after 
which he reascends the platform, and an oration 
suitable to the occasion is delivered. 

A voluntary collection is made for the needy work- 
men ; and the sum collected is placed upon the stone 
Dy the Grand Treasurer. 

A suitable song in honor of Masonry concludes 
the ceremony ; after which, the procession returns to 
the place whence it set out, and the Lodge is closed 
in due form. 

Section Fourth. 

The fourth section contains the ceremony observed 
at the Dedication of Freemasons' Halls. 

On the day appointed, the Grand Master and his 
officers, accompanied by the members of the Grand 
Lodge, meet in a convenient room near the place 

* Grand Honors, see p. 143. 



132 freemason's monitor. 

where the ceremony is to be performed, and open in 
due and ample form , in the third degree of Masonry. 
The Master of the Lodge to which the Hall to 
be dedicated belongs, being present, addresses the 
Grand Master as follows : 

Most Worshipful: 

The brethren of Lodge, being 

animated with a desire of promoting the 
honor and interest of the Craft, have, at 
great pains and expense, erected a Ma- 
sonic Hall for their convenience and ac- 
commodation. Thy are now desirous that 
the same should be examined by the M. 
W. Grand Lodge ; and if it meet their 
approbation, that it should be solemnly 
dedicated to Masonic purposes, agreeably 
to ancient form. 

The Grand Master then directs the Grand Marshal 
to form the procession, when they move forward to 
the Hall to be dedicated. On entering, the music 
will continue, while the procession marches three 
times round the hall. 

The carpet or flooring is then placed in the center; 
and the Grand Master having taken the chair, under 
a canopy of state, the Grand Officers, and the Masters 
and Wardens of the Lodges repair to the places 



freemason's monitor. 133 

previously prepared for their reception. The three 
Lights, and the Gold and Silver Pitchers, with the 
corn, wine, and oil, are placed round the Lodge, at the 
head of which stands the Altar, with the Holy Bible 
open, and the Square and Compasses laid thereon, 
with the Charter, Book of Constitutions, and By-laws. 
An Anthem is sung, and an Exordium on Masonry 
given ; after which the Architect addresses the Grand 
Master as follows : 

Most Wokshipful: 

Having been intrusted with the super- 
intendence and management of the work- 
men employed in the erection of this 
edifice ; and having, according to the best 
of my ability, accomplished the task as- 
signed me, I now return my thanks for the 
honor of this appointment, and beg leave 
to surrender up the implements which 
were committed to my care when the 
foundation of this fabric was laid ; humbly 
hoping that the exertions which have been 
made on this occasion, will be crowned 
with your approbation, and that of the 
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge. 

To which the Grand Master makes the following 
reply : 



134 freemason's monitor. 

Brother Architect : 

The skill and fidelity displayed in the 
execution of the trust reposed in you, at 
the commencement of this undertaking, 
have secured the approbation of the Grand 
Lodge ; and they sincerely pray that this 
edifice may continue a lasting monument 
of the taste, spirit, and liberality of its 
founders. 

An Ode in honor of Masonry is sung, accompanied 
with instrumental music. 

The Deputy Grand Master then rises and says: 

Most Worshipful : 

The hall in which we are now as- 
sembled, and the plan upon which it has 
been constructed, having met with your 
approbation, it is the desire of the Fra- 
ternity that it should now be dedicated 
according to ancient form and usage. 

Whereupon a procession is formed in the following 

order, viz : 

Grand Sword-bearer; 

A Past Master with a Light ; 

A Past Master with a Bible, Square, and Compasses, on a 

velvet cushion ; 

Two Past Masters, each with a Light; 



freemason's monitor. 135 

Grand Secretary and Treasurer with Emblems; 

Grand Junior Warden with Pitcher of Corn ; 

Grand Senior Warden with Pitcher of Wine; 

Deputy Grand Master with Pitcher of Oil j 

Grand Master; 

Two Stewards with Rods ; 



All the other brethren keep their places, and assist 
in performing an Ode, which continues during the 
procession, excepting only at the intervals of dedi- 
cation. The Carpet being uncovered, the first time 
passing round it, the Grand Junior Warden presents 
the Pitcher of Corn to the Grand Master, who pours 
it out upon the Lodge, at the same time pronouncing : 

"In the name of the Great Jehovah, 
to whom be all honor and glory, I do 
solemnly dedicate this Hall to MA- 
SONRY." 

\The grand honors are given."] 

The second time passing round the Lodge, the 
Grand Senior Warden presents the Pitcher of Wine 
to the Grand Master, who sprinkles it upon the Carpet, 
at the same time saying : 

"In the name of the Holy Saints 
John, I do solemnly dedicate this Hall 
to VIRTUE." 

[The grand honors are twice given.] 



UO FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

The third time passing round the Lodge, the 
Deputy Grand Master presents the Grand Master with 
the Pitcher of Oil, who pours it upon the Carpet, 
saying : 

"In the name of the whole Fraternity, 
I do solemnly dedicate this Hall to UNI- 
VERSAL BENEVOLENCE." 

\_The grand honors are thrice given.~\ 

A solemn Invocation is made to the Throne of 
Grace by the Grand Chaplain, and an Anthem sung; 
after which the Carpet is covered, and the Grand 
Master retires to his Chair. 

An Oration is then delivered, and the ceremonies 
conclude with music. The Grand Lodge is then 
closed in due or ample form 



freemason's monitor. 137 

CHAPTER XIY. 

FORMS MOST COMMONLY REQUIRED. 

FORM OF A PETITION FOR A CHARTER OR WARRANT 
TO ESTABLISH A NEW LODGE. 

To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State 
of : 

YOUR petitioners respectfully represent, that 
they are ancient, free, and accepted Master 
Masons. Having the prosperity of the Fraternity at 
heart, they are willing to exert their hest endeavors to 
promote and diffuse the genuine principles of Masonry. 
For the convenience of their respective dwellings, and 
for other good reasons, they are desirous of forming a 

new Lodge in the town of , to be named 

Lodge. In consequence of this desire, and 

for the good of the Craft, they pray for a warrant or 
dispensation, to empower them to assemble as a legal 
Lodge, to discharge the duties of Masonry in the 
several degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow-Craft, 
and Master Mason, in a regular and constitutional 
manner, according to the ancient form of the Fra- 
ternity, and the laws and regulations of the Grand 
Lodge. That they have nominated and do recom- 
mend A. B. to be the first Master, C. D. to be the 
first Senior Warden, and E. F. to be the first Junior 
Warden of said Lodge ; that, if the prayer of the 
petition should be granted, they promise a strict con- 



138 freemason's monitor. 

formity to all the constitutional laws, rules, and regu- 
lations of the Grand Lodge. 

This petition must be signed by at least eight 
regular Master Masons, one of whom must, be of the 
degree of Past Master, and recommended by the 
Lodge nearest the place where the new Lodge is 
to be held. It must be delivered to the Grand Secre- 
tary, whose *duty it is to lay it before the Grand Lodge. 
In the recess of the Grand Lodge, application should 
be made in the same form to the Grand Master. 

After a charter is granted by the Grand Lodge, the 
Grand Master appoints a day and hour for constitut- 
ing and consecrating the new Lodge, and for install- 
ing the Master, Wardens, and other officers. The 
Grand Master has power to appoint some worthy Past 
Master, with full power to consecrate, constitute, and 
install the petitioners. 



FORM OF A PROXY FROM THE GRAND MASTER TO 
A PRESENT OR PAST MASTER TO CONSTITUTE AND 
CONSECRATE A NEW LODGE, AND TO INSTALL THE 
OFFICERS. 

Office of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodqe \ 

of F. and A. Masons of the State of , r 

, 18— .J 

To All Whom it May Concern — Greeting : 

Know ye, that, reposing full confidence in the skill 

and Masonic ability of our Worshipful Brother 



freemason's monitor. 139 



I, Grand Master of the M. W. Grand Lodge of - 



do by these presents constitute and appoint him my 
Proxy, for me and in my name, to constitute and con- 
secrate Lodge, No. — , and to install the 

officers thereof in due and ancient form, he making 
due return to me of his doings in the premises. 

Given under my hand and private seal, at , 

the day and year first above written. 

[private seal.] M. W. Grand Master. 



PETITION FOR A DISPENSATION TO CONFER DE- 
GREES ON, OR BALLOT FOR, A CANDIDATE, IN 
LESS THAN THE REGULAR TIME. 

Hall of Lodge, No — . •» 

18-. } 

To the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge 

of : 

By a vote of this Lodge, I am instructed to ask 
you for a dispensation to pass the ballot (or confer the 
degrees, as the case may he) for M. A. B., who has 
petitioned this Lodge for initiation, (or is anxious to 
receive the degrees of F. C. and M. M., as the case may 
be,) at a special meeting, to be called for that purpose. 

M. A. B. is — years of age; his residence is ; 

his occupation is . The case is one of emer- 
gency, for the reasons following : \B.ere state at length 
the reasons why a dispensation should be granted in 
the case.~\ 0. P., W. Master. 

[seal of lodge.] 



140 FREEMASON S MONITOR. 

PETITION TO BE PRESENTED BY A CANDIDATE FOR 
INITIATION. 

To the Worshipful Master Wardens and Brethren 

of Lodge, No. — , of F. and A. Masons: 

The petition of the subscriber respectfully showeth 
that, having long entertained a favorable opinion of 
your ancient institution, he is desirous of being ad- 
mitted a member thereof, if found worthy. 

His place of residence is ; his age, — years; 

his occupation, . 

(Signed) A. B. 



PETITION FOR AFFILIATION. 

To the Worshipful Master Wardens and Brethren 

of Lodge, No. — : 

The petition of the subscriber respectfully showeth 
that he is a Master Mason, and has been regularly di- 
mitted from Lodge No. — , under the juris- 
diction of the Grand Lodge of , and is desir- 
ous of becoming a member of your Lodge. 

His residence is ; his occupation is . 

Should his petition be granted, he promises obedience 
to the by-laws and regulations of your Lodge. 

(Signed) A. B. 



PETITION FOR DIMIT. 

Date, , 186—. 

To the Worshipful Masters, Wardens, and Brethren 

of Lodge, No. — : 

The undersigned, a Master Mason, and member in 



FREEMASON S MONITOR. 141 

good standing in your Lodge, respectfully asks to 
withdraw from membership, and that a dimit be 
issued to him certifying such fact. 

The reasons which induce this request are: [Here 
set forth the reasons, for instance, about to remove to the 
jurisdiction of another Lodge, to join in a petition 
for new Lodge, etc., etc., as the case may be."] 

(Signed) A. B. 



FORM OF A DIMIT. 

Hall of Lodge No. — , held at by 

authority of the Grand Lodge of . I hereby 

certify that at a meeting of Lodge 

No. — , held on the day of , A. L. 

586 — , Bro. , by consent of said Lodge, with- 
drew his membership from the same ; he being at the 
time a worthy Master Mason, [here state Masonic 
official rank, P. M., P. S. W., etc., as the case may 
be,~\ in good standing, and having paid all dues 
assessed against him. 

By order of said Lodge. 

[seal.] , Sec'y. 



PETITION FOR A DIPLOMA 

May be made verbally by the applicant in person, 
or through any brother. 



142 freemason's monitor. 

form of diploma, or grand lodge certificate. 

Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons > 
of the State of . ) 

I hereby certify, that Lodge, No. — , ia 

regularly constituted and held under the authority 

and jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, and that 

is Worshipful Master, is Senior Warden, and 

is Junior Warden of said Lodge. 



In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand 

and affixed the seal of the Grand Lodge, at , 

this day of A. L. 586 — , A. D. 186—. 

[seal.] , Grand Secretary. 

We, the Master and Wardens of Lodge, 

No. — , held under the authority and jurisdiction of 
the Grand Lodge of F. and A. Masons of the State 

of , do hereby certify that our worthy and 

well-beloved brother (who has written his 

name below,) is a Master Mason, in good standing in 
our Lodge, and he is hereby recommended to the 
favor and protection of the Craft throughout the 
globe. 

Given under our hands and the seal of our Lodge, 

at , this day of , A. L. 586 — , 

A. D. 186—. 

, W. M. 

, S. M. 

, J. W. 

Attest : 

, Secretary. 



Signature of ■ 



freemason's monitor. 143 

PUBLIC GRAND HONORS. 

The Public Grand Honors are given on all publio 
occasions in the presence of the profane as well as 
the initiated. They are used at the laying of corner- 
stones of public buildings, or in other services in 
which the ministrations of the Fraternity are re- 
quired, and especially in funerals. They are given 
in the following manner: Both arms are crossed on 
the breast, the left uppermost, and the open palms 
of the hands sharply striking the shoulders; they 
are then raised above the head, the palms striking 
each other, and then made to fall smartly upon the 
thighs. This is repeated three times, and as there 
are three blows given each time, namely, on the 
breast, on the palms of the hands, and on the thighs, 
making nine concussions in all, the Grand Honors 
are technically said to be given " by three times 
three." On the occasion of funerals, each one of 
these honors is accompanied by the words " the will 
of God; is accomplished : so mote it be" audibly 
pronounced by the brethren. — Mackey^s Lexicon. 



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